Residents of the Niger Delta have raised alarm over the grave environmental damage caused by oil theft and illegal refining, describing the activities as a major driver of pollution, loss of livelihoods and declining public health across the region.
The residents, however, acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Nigerian military under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, to curb the menace and protect critical national assets.
The concerns were voiced at rallies organised on Thursday and Friday by the Niger Delta Peace and Security Forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, and Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where community leaders and stakeholders deliberated on the long-term impact of crude oil theft on farmlands, waterways, mangroves and air quality.
Speaking at the rallies, the Convener of the forum, Mr Inko-Tariah Micheal, said illegal bunkering and artisanal refining had for years triggered frequent oil spills, soot pollution, destruction of aquatic life and contamination of drinking water sources, leaving many communities environmentally and economically exposed.
He noted that recent actions by the Nigerian military under the CDS to disrupt oil theft networks had begun to reduce some of the harmful practices in affected areas, creating room for environmental recovery and improved community safety.
“Our concern has always been the environment and the wellbeing of our people,” Micheal said.
“The steps being taken to tackle oil theft are critical because they limit further damage to our land and rivers, while safeguarding national resources.”
Participants at the rallies stressed that the fight against oil theft must be sustained, with strong emphasis on environmental protection, accountability and community participation.
They called for closer collaboration among host communities, security agencies, environmental regulators and government authorities to achieve lasting solutions.
The Niger Delta Peace and Security Forum urged that current security efforts be complemented with environmental remediation, livelihood support programmes and transparent engagement with local communities to secure a cleaner and more sustainable future for the Niger Delta.
