In the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State, the Aladja community is struggling with an urgent environmental crisis that has sent shockwaves through its once-thriving fishing industry. Right at the core of this problem is oil bunkering. It’s basically this illegal and really damaging activity that’s become a big issue in the communities around the Warri River.
Comrade Oro Ivwrigheghweta advocated for the agrarian community, emerging as the voice of those who have seen their way of life turn around due to the actions of oil bunkering operatives. He emphasizes the bad effects of criminal activity and how it’s affecting the lives of people attached to it. For example, these illegal activities have led to the deaths of fish in the river, harming fishermen and finding them clashing with financial hardship.
Comrade Ivwrigheghweta emphasized, “Their actions have negatively impacted our environment. Fishermen are groaning the drastic decline in fish population.”
Ivwrigheghweta implored the government to take swift and decisive action against crime, particularly crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region. He also called for an end to security agencies accepting bribes from those engaged in this illicit trade.
