The President General and Founder of the Akwa Ibom Oil Producing Community Development Network (AKIPCON), Apostle Ufot Phenson, has issued an alwrm over the escalating destruction of ecosystems in Akwa Ibom State by oil companies. He cautioned that the unchecked activities of these oil firms could lead to a severe scarcity of fish in coastal communities and a wider food crisis across Nigeria.
Speaking at a book launch in Uyo on Friday, themed “State Security Management, Hydrocarbon Pollution, Environment and Implication on Human Rights in Nigeria,” Phenson highlighted the devastating impact of incessant oil spills, water contamination, and gas flaring. He explained that these environmental hazards have crippled fishing and farming—primary sources of livelihood for many natives.
Phenson specifically referenced the recent oil spill in Ibeno Local Government Area, warning that such disasters could exacerbate Nigeria’s already troubling food insecurity. He predicted that if these issues are not addressed, many Nigerians, particularly those in coastal communities, will be driven to crime for survival.
“Continued pollution by oil firms will worsen the food crisis, leaving many without viable means of making a living,” Phenson stated.
AKIPCON was founded in 2006 following a major oil spill from Shell Petroleum’s facility in Ikot Ada Udo, Ikot Abasi Local Government Area. Since then, the group has advocated for the protection of oil-producing communities and the preservation of the environment. Phenson called for unity among the communities, urging them to resist the divide-and-rule tactics of international oil companies (IOCs) and present a united front to demand accountability.
“Our environment is our heritage, and we must protect it from the devastating activities of these oil companies. The pollution has caused acid rain, air contamination, and the destruction of aquatic life. Gas flaring is driving animals to extinction, leaving us with barren land and no fish in our waters,” Phenson lamented.
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Phenson’s newly launched book exposes the harmful environmental practices of oil companies, which he argues violate the United Nations’ guaranteed right to a clean environment. He emphasized that oil companies have denied host communities this fundamental right for too long.
Dr. Udeme Nana, a Chief Lecturer in Journalism and Media Studies at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, reviewed the book and recommended it for young people and the general public. He praised the content as “educative, informative, and expository,” shedding light on the critical issues affecting oil-producing communities.
Barrister Chima Williams, the Chairman of the book launch event and Executive Director of the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), noted that the book arrives at a crucial time. He explained that the insecurity plaguing the Niger Delta is largely fueled by environmental neglect and pollution, which have left oil-producing communities frustrated.
“The Niger Delta produces the golden egg but has nothing to show for it,” Williams remarked, highlighting the deep-rooted issues of exploitation and neglect.
Williams called for a comprehensive environmental audit in Akwa Ibom and the Niger Delta to assess the damage caused by oil exploration. He committed EDEN to continue partnering with AKIPCON to document the environmental impact and pressure state institutions to take action against polluting oil firms.
