Residents of the Obololi community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State are expressing deep frustration over the lack of relief efforts following an oil spill that occurred on February 16. The incident, caused by a leak from an underwater pipeline operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company, has contaminated the Obololi River and surrounding creeks.
Goodnews Okoi, Chairman of the Obololi Community Development Committee, has raised alarms about the severe water scarcity and the heightened risk of a cholera outbreak resulting from the spill. He stated that the polluted river was the community’s primary water source, forcing residents to purchase sachet water at inflated prices.
“Since the spill, our fishing activities have ceased, and our farmlands have been severely affected. We feel abandoned,” Okoi lamented. “The cost of water has doubled, and this is unbearable, especially in the current economic climate.”
While Shell has shut off oil feeds into the leaking pipeline and promised updates on relief efforts, residents feel that the company’s response has been inadequate. Okoi highlighted that the community has received no immediate assistance since the spill, exacerbating their suffering.
The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Environment has visited the area, but residents report that no tangible relief has been provided. Local Government Chairman Target Segibo had previously promised to repair a borehole, but that effort has stalled due to equipment failure.
Additionally, Okoi expressed concern over a recommendation from the National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) to divert the river to access the leak point. He warned that such actions could further isolate the community and hinder access to essential goods and supplies.
“This situation is dire, and we urgently need action from SPDC and the government to address the crisis,” Okoi stated, calling for immediate support to mitigate the impact of the oil spill and prevent further health risks.
