By Nelson Agbajor
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the long-standing ecological challenges confronting Ugbokodo community in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, pledging concrete and speedy intervention to tackle shoreline erosion, flooding and environmental degradation in the oil-producing host community.
This assurance was given by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, when he received a high-powered delegation from Okpe Kingdom led by His Royal Majesty, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd.), Orhue I, the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, at his office in Abuja. The delegation included Senator Ede Dafinone, who represents Delta Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
Speaking during the meeting, Senator Akume commended the Orodje for his distinguished service and leadership, assuring the delegation that the Federal Government was not deliberately neglecting Ugbokodo’s environmental plight. He emphasised that the concerns raised were legitimate and deserved urgent attention, promising that the matter would receive serious consideration with a view to ensuring tangible action.
The visit was aimed at drawing the Federal Government’s attention to the worsening shoreline erosion and environmental degradation that have threatened lives, livelihoods and critical infrastructure in Ugbokodo for years. Despite the community’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s oil wealth, residents have continued to grapple with the devastating impact of flooding and coastal encroachment.
Senator Dafinone emphasised the importance of environmental justice for host communities, noting that sustainable development cannot be achieved when communities that fuel the nation’s economy are left vulnerable to ecological disasters. He reiterated his commitment to working closely with relevant federal agencies to ensure that Ugbokodo receives the protection and remediation it urgently requires.
Other members of the delegation included Hon. Benedict Etanabene, Member representing Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency; Chief Clifford Kpikpini; Chief Napoleon Akpobecha; Chief Bright Igbako; and Chief Engr. J.O. Ebireri. They collectively underscored the urgency of federal intervention to prevent further loss of land and property.
The engagement marks a renewed push by Okpe Kingdom and stakeholders in Delta Central Senatorial District to secure federal support for shoreline protection and environmental sustainability. It reinforces their collective resolve to pursue community protection, environmental justice and long-term development for oil-producing and host communities in the Niger Delta.