The Nigerian Senate has announced its decision to launch an investigation into the N6.5 billion shoreline protection contract awarded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Ondo State back in 2006. This move follows a motion put forward by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, who represents Ondo State, highlighting the devastating effects faced by the oil-producing community of Ayetoro in Ondo State.
Senator Ibrahim expressed deep concern over the gradual disappearance of Ayetoro, stating that the community’s contribution to the nation’s economy is significant, and its current plight raises fears of extinction. He also called for the oil company responsible for dredging in Ayetoro to take more proactive measures in addressing the situation.
In addition to the investigation into the NDDC’s contract, the Senate has also shown apprehension over the dehumanizing impact of erosion in Anambra and Edo states. Senator Monday Okpebholo, representing Edo Central, presented a motion titled “Urgent Need for Erosion Control in Edo Central Senatorial District to Save Lives and Properties.” He highlighted the severe flooding and gully erosion that have led to road devastations and the evacuation of communities, including areas along the Okene-Auchi-Benin expressway and the Ewu-Uromi-Agbor Road corridor.
Senator Okpebholo drew attention to specific incidents, such as two people losing their lives due to flooding in Ujoelen, Ekpoma, and a schoolgirl dying in Efandion, Uromi, while on her way to school. The Senate stressed that the erosion menace poses a serious risk to highway road projects in Edo central, potentially leading to the loss of significant amounts of money and putting additional strain on local and state governments already grappling with the financial burden of addressing erosion disasters.
In response to these environmental concerns, the lawmakers have urged the federal government to take immediate action in mitigating the effects of erosion in the affected states. Furthermore, the Senate has mandated the NDDC to collaborate with other relevant intervention agencies to address the harmful impact of ocean surges on the Ayetoro community in Ondo State.
Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, also joined the chorus, calling for urgent measures to control the erosion ravaging the Onitsha-Oba section of the Onitsha-Owerri Federal Highway in Anambra State. The destructive effects of gully erosion and landslides have severely impacted communities along this highway route, leading to widespread concern for the affected residents.
In summary, the Nigerian Senate’s decision to investigate the NDDC’s N6.5 billion shoreline protection contract aims to shed light on the project’s implementation and address environmental challenges faced by communities in Ondo, Anambra, and Edo states. The urgent call for action reflects the senators’ commitment to protecting lives, properties, and the environment.
