Uzere Gas Leak: Ukodhiko Seeks Urgent Federal Intervention As Residents Face Health Risks
REP. Jonathan Ajirioghene Ukodhiko has called for urgent government intervention to contain a gas leak in Uzere community, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, following the collapse of Well 14.
The lawmaker, who represents Isoko North and South Federal Constituency, made the appeal during an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas. He also assured residents that he would work with relevant authorities to address the incident.
Ukodhiko began his visit at the palace of the Ovie of Uzere Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Udogiri I. There, he explained the purpose of his mission and stressed the need for a coordinated response.
He disclosed that he had discussed the gas leak and its implications for public safety and the environment with Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Consequently, he pledged to work with Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, who represents Delta South, to raise the matter at the National Assembly and draw the Federal Government’s attention to the crisis.
According to Ukodhiko, he would pursue appropriate measures to contain the leak, protect residents and address the environmental consequences.
Highlighting Uzere’s contribution to Nigeria’s oil industry, the lawmaker said the Uzere West and Uzere East fields comprised 43 oil wells and produced about 53,000 barrels of crude oil daily, based on the figures he cited.
Meanwhile, the Ovie thanked Governor Oborevwori for his concern and commended Ukodhiko for visiting the community. He described the gas leak as a serious threat and disclosed that residents living close to the affected areas had been relocated to safer locations.
The monarch also appealed to the government and relevant agencies to act swiftly. He warned that the situation was deteriorating and required urgent attention.
After leaving the palace, Ukodhiko visited the country home of High Chief Iduh Amadhe before proceeding to the affected areas for an inspection.
Speaking to journalists afterwards, he described the incident as a major environmental and public health concern. He warned that its effects could extend beyond the immediate vicinity of the leak.
Although he assured residents that efforts were under way to address the problem, he said remedial work would be undertaken when the floodwaters receded. He also commended the community for remaining peaceful despite the difficulties and urged residents to remain calm while authorities pursued a response.
Similarly, Isoko South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Friday Warri Ovoke, commended the governor and the federal lawmaker for their concern. He disclosed that Oborevwori had earlier dispatched a team led by the Commissioner for Oil and Gas to assess the situation.
Ovoke called on Heritage Oil Company to take immediate and effective steps to contain the leak, protect residents and prevent further environmental damage.
In addition, the President-General of Uzere Kingdom, represented by the chairman of the kingdom’s Oil and Gas Committee, Chief Columbus Oguname, expressed concern over the hardship facing residents.
He raised the alarm over reports of increasing sickness and other health problems since the incident occurred. Therefore, he appealed to Heritage Oil and the relevant government authorities to intervene urgently and provide relief to affected residents.
The community leadership reiterated its call for the swift containment of the leak, protection of public health and a thorough response to the environmental impact.
