Posted by Niger Delta Youth Council
…Seeks NNPC, IOCs Assistance
Niger Delta Youth Council (NDYC) has urged the Federal Government to urgently declare the Niger Delta region of the country an emergency zone to radically address the challenges posed by the flood to the people and the environment.
The NDYC also called on the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Nigeria National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and the International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in the area to urgently set up emergency relief centres to assist persons who are homeless and without any means of livelihood as a result of the flooding.
Engr. Jator Abido, the National Coordinator of NDYC at a press conference maintained that the situation in the area is grave and requires urgent attention not only from the National Emergency Agency (NEMA) but indeed all bodies operating in the region.
He emphasised that the region should not only be seen as the chicken that lays the golden egg but can be left to fend for itself as soon as it plays such an important role, noting that all stakeholders must rise up to support the area during this time of the overwhelming flood.
He further explained that although there was an early warning sign which ought to have activated some remedial measures, such was not hearkened to.
While expressing worry at the condition of the victims whom he described as“sorrowful”, Engr. Abido said the lackadaisical attitude so far displayed by the appropriate authority calls for concerns.
He enjoined all well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of victims as well as put preventive mechanisms in place as part of deliberate efforts to safeguard the menace.
Responding to a question, Engr Abido said: “The entire Niger Delta region is now an endangered place. The area is treated with disdain even by those who are making fortunes from our land.
Our water bodies have become one of the most polluted in the country. We bear the consequences of oil spills which in some cases arise from the negligence of the exploiters.
Now, this phenomenon is taking a great toll on us and nobody seems to look our way. This is disheartening. It should not be allowed. All those who are either vertically or horizontally benefiting from our natural endowments must wake up from their slumber and support us in this moment of need”.