– As Ibas emphasizes the importance of information sharing for efficient security operations

Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — Residents of communities within the Bonny Kingdom in Rivers State have called upon the government of Rivers State to promptly tackle the deteriorating environmental health problems reportedly linked to the activities of international oil companies operating in the region.

This request came during a one-day interactive security workshop arranged by the state government and hosted at the Ibanise Hall in Bonny. Attendees expressed concerns over an increase in diseases caused by pollution and urged for the creation of a dedicated medical facility to care for those impacted residents.

Residents of Bonny similarly urged international oil companies working within the region to uphold their commitments regarding environmental protection and community welfare.

Vice Chairman Se-Alabo Haniel Tamunoiwarisoma Jack-Wilson Pepple of the Bonny Chiefs' Council emphasized that unless immediate action is taken, the region's future environmental well-being and ecosystem balance will be under threat.

“The people of Bonny are suffering from the health consequences of years of oil exploration. We need a hospital specifically equipped to handle pollution-related conditions.

"We stand unified under our King and share a single voice. The multinational corporations need to act responsibly towards us. They should face consequences for the environmental damage and health emergency in Bonny," Jack-Wilson Pepple stated additionally.

On behalf of the Rivers State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd.), the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, highlighted that sharing information is an essential part of successful security efforts. He encouraged residents of Bonny to play an active role in supporting this initiative.

He mentioned that the initiative was designed to bring governance nearer to local communities, emphasizing security and well-being; he also recognized the concerns expressed and assured that all feedback would be forwarded to the state leaders.

These problems won’t simply be ignored. We’ll record each issue and send them to the State Administrator for immediate action. We’re prepared to collaborate with everyone, with or without their approval.

He similarly criticized the increasing instances of abductions in Bonny and appealed to locals for help by identifying criminals, who as he pointed out, often live among them.

The Sole Administrator of Bonny LGA, Mr. Kingsley N. Banigo, committed to ongoing cooperation with security forces and reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing communal well-being.

"We become stronger when united. Collaboration between all parties involved is crucial for ensuring security in Bonny and enhancing the well-being of our community members," Banigo declared.

Key demands raised by the community during the session include, “Swift government intervention on environmental health challenges from IOC operations. Creation of a specialized hospital for pollution-related illnesses.

Others are, “Strengthening of boundary and village security infrastructure. Greater accountability from the NDDC, which stakeholders said has left Bonny behind.”

The event concluded with visits to inspect the Bonny General Hospital and Bonny Model Primary School, highlighting a stated emphasis by authorities on essential public facilities.

The seminar brought together high-ranking government officials, representatives from civil society, service chiefs, and traditional leaders, all converging on the urgent need for health care, security, and justice for the residents of Bonny.