Aloo Ma.

Okon Bassey in Uyo

The Ekid people residing in the Eket senatorial district of Akwa Ibom State are urging the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), the Ministry of Environment, and other relevant agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the recent oil spill that occurred along the community’s coastline.

The Ekid Peoples Union (EPU), representing the people, emphasized the importance of an early investigation to ensure the proper handling of the oil spill and minimize its damaging effects.

In a joint statement released by Dr Samuel Udonsak, the National President of EPU, and Barrister Bassey Dan Abia, the Secretary General, the Ekid people stressed that the detrimental consequences of the oil spill still persist along the coastline.

The statement underlines the significant impact of the oil spill on human life, marine ecosystems, and the overall environment, highlighting the urgency of a comprehensive investigation.

As responsible citizens, the Ekid people are requesting fair compensation to mitigate the negative repercussions of the spill.

The EPU calls upon NOSDRA, the Ministry of Environment, and all other relevant agencies involved to promptly and transparently investigate the cause and extent of the spill. Additionally, the spilled oil should be forensically examined to identify the responsible international oil companies (IOCs).

While acknowledging their cooperative history with IOCs in hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation activities, the Ekid people emphasize their commitment to protecting their rights.

We urge the regulatory agencies concerned to ensure immediate cleanup of the affected environment by the parties responsible,” the statement concludes.