Senator Ned Nwoko, the Senate Vice Chairman on Environment from the PDP representing Delta, reaffirmed the Senate’s unwavering commitment to tackling environmental degradation in the country. He stressed that the pressing issues included erosion, which significantly affected Delta State, particularly the North Senatorial District, and widespread flooding impacting over 13 states and five local government areas in Delta North.
Pollution was another critical concern, caused by haphazard waste disposal and hazardous gas flaring. He also mentioned the challenges posed by crude oil pipeline vandalism and spills, often resulting from illegal refining activities.
Nwoko emphasized that the Senate was already taking steps to address erosion by allocating funds in the upcoming budget for urgent interventions in affected areas. He also called for immediate action to prevent annual flooding disasters, proposing the completion of a dam originally intended to control water from Cameroonian dams and, if necessary, the construction of a new dam. Dredging the River Niger and constructing embankments along the shoreline were identified as essential projects.
Furthermore, Nwoko stressed the need to curtail gas flaring and impose substantial penalties on violators, advocating for adherence to international pollution standards as seen in developed countries. He emphasized that the 10th assembly would ensure strict enforcement and respect for human lives and the environment, promising to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.
