World Bank project stakeholders undergo training in Yenagoa

World Bank project stakeholders undergo training in Yenagoa Some 200 participants of World Bank-assisted State Employment and Expenditure For Result (SEEFOR) Project in Bayelsa onWednesday commenced a two-day training exercise. The training was organised for field staff, contractors and supervisors on the techniques of labour-intensive public works. Declaring the training open on Wednesday in Yenagoa, Mr Ayens Adogu, Project Co-Ordinator, SEEFOR, Bayelsa said the training was aimed at enlightening the participants on the objectives and cardinal principles of the project. He said the field staff, contractors and supervisors ought to have a good knowledge of the SEEFOR project development model and apply the principles to create opportunities through public works to engage youths. According to him, the training would create additional value for job execution and help in the handling of grievances as well as enhance agency-community relations. "Essentially, this training is to cascade ideas and ideologies for the participants to be abreast of what to do and decisions to make to improve their relationship with workers", Adogu said. He urged the participants, numbering 200, to take the training seriously and make good use of the lessons from it, stressing that development requires the commitment of all stakeholders to make society better. In his remarks, Mr Tope Oribuyaku, an official of Techgrade Consulting, the training provider, noted that managing labour-intensive public works was difficult hence the need for the exercise. He said the contractors were under obligation to plan, manage and execute their jobs effectively to achieve quality result while ensuring safe working environment for workers. Oribuyaku stressed that "contractors must comply with specifications" in order not to face sanctions ranging from payment of liquidated damages to termination of contract. Mr Francis Damilola, a participant and contractor, commended the SEEFOR for coming up with the training programme, saying it would help them manage project funds properly. Also Mrs Ruth Terry, one of the supervisors, said that lessons from the training would guide them to supervise the project better to get quality outcome.

Bayelsa Farmers lament destruction of farmlands by cattle

Bayelsa Farmers lament destruction of farmlands by cattle Farmers in Ekpetiama Kingdom in Yenagoa Local Government Area (LGA) of Bayelsa Wednesday appealed to security agencies to prevail on herdsmen who lead cattle to graze in the area to desist from the act. Farmers, community leaders and inhabitants of the Kingdom decried the activities of some of the herdsmen who are unable to control their herds of cattle which ravage their crops. They appealed to the Authorities to wade into the matter in order to prevent any breakdown of law and order. Ekpetiama Kingdom comprises seven towns situated along the banks of the River Nun and several tributaries connecting the River Niger and the Atlantic Ocean. These Towns are Gbarantoru, Tombia, Agudama, Akaibiri, Boumondi Gbene and Ikibiri. It was gathered that the communities engage in dry season farming planting crops such as cassava, water yam, potato and plantain. However, there are conflicts between farmers and herdsmen leading cattle to graze in the area, with locals alleging that their farms and crops are often destroyed in the process. The Monarch of Ekpetiama Kingdom, King Bubraye Dakolo urged the government and security agencies to look into the plight of his people, calling for urgent measures to address the situation before it degenerates. “What is happening now is a recipe for disaster. It is very difficult to watch your crops which are doing well being eaten up by cows. “Imagine your one hectare of land you have managed to till at a great cost in terms of money, sweat and energy is now being devoured by some animals. “So, you go and plant water yams, cassava and plantain, by the time you realize it, they have been devoured. It could spark some clash someday between farmers and herdsmen”, Dakolo said. A farmer based in Tombia community, Mrs Ibomo Odigi who narrated her experience observed that the impact of uncontrolled grazing had taken a negative toll on food production. “These herds of cattle they brought here, they have destroyed all our water yam, cassava. “Some of the herdsmen are even armed with guns.They said everybody should go to farm and that is what we have done but these cattle have eaten everything. “One woman is lying critically ill at the Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital with High Blood Pressure after her crops were destroyed,” She said. Another farmer from Agudama,Yenagoa LGA Mrs Preye Kala-Okpoya said: “Last month, they invaded my farm and destroyed everything. “Last year, the same thing happened in my farm and when I went to look at it, I saw their guns hidden there,” she said Mr Alagoa Morris, Head of Field Operations at the Environmental Rights Action, said that timely intervention by relevant authorities would avert any imminent danger. “These incidents might escalate into violence if nothing is done and we don’t want violence. “The herdsmen are not in total control of their cattle which veer off to eat crops and plants in farmlands rather that feed on grasses. “The relationship between the farmers and herdsmen is getting to the level where it is no longer healthy. “We think the government should come in to ensure that anything that would lead to bloodshed is averted. It should be live and let live. “Some days ago, some of the farmers in Ekpetiama Kingdom took to the streets to protest the destruction of their crops and farmlands by cattle led by the herdsmen.” he said.

Resident Doctors strike grounds FMC Yenagoa as other union threaten to join

Resident Doctors strike grounds FMC Yenagoa as other union threaten to join The ongoing strike by resident doctors at the Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa has crippled the hospital as other unions threaten to join the strike even as patients lament. The doctors under the auspices of Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) had on November 15, commenced an indefinite strike to protest nonpayment of salary for past two months. It was also gathered that the hospital also owed its workforce a backlog of 52 per cent short payment arrears for four months. Our Correspondent who visited the hospital on Sunday reports that members of the public who throng to the facility are being turned back by nurses and other health professionals in the hospital who have yet to join the strike. The strike which entered its fifth day had rendered the hospital desolate as patients on admission were discharged. A patient Mr Bozimor Oduku, who was abruptly, discharged expressing sadness and frustration over the strike said that he could not afford exorbitant medical bills at any private hospital in Yenagoa. "This strike is taking place at a time of economic hardship, before coming here for treatment I had visited many private hospitals and I could not pay, one of them advised me to come here and the fees are very affordable except for the high cost of drugs due to the foreign exchange problems. "Now that I came here for succor, they have come to ask us to pack and go home, where do I go from here? To go home and die? God forbid, " he said President, Association of Resident Doctors in FMC, Yenagoa , Dr. Okoye Chukwunonso aid that the doctors were yet to shift grounds till their salaries are paid in full. He said that the management was yet to initiate talks to resolve the industrial dispute adding that if nothing was done they are ready to stay at home till next year. Also Dr Keme Pondei Chairman of Nigeria Medical Association in Bayelsa, said the doctors have no option than to withdrawn their services haven exhausted their patience. . He urged the general public to bear with them as they cannot render services with an empty stomach. A Nurse with FMC, Mrs. Chinyere Okpu, expressed sadness over the non payment of three months salary and short payment for four months for doctors and other medical and non medical staff of the hospital. . She said that all other staff of the hospital have resolved to join the indefinite strike action embarked by doctors of the hospital if the outstanding salaries were not paid by end of November. NAN gathered that other unions within the hospital under the auspicies of National Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) had threatened to down tools and the end of November if the hospital fails to clear outstanding salaries. Mr Oginike Lante Chairman of NUAHP in FMC Yenagoa said on Sunday that the salary arrears and outstanding shortfalls cuts across staff of the hospital adding that members of his group would go on strike if the situation is not addressed. When contacted for reaction the Chief Medical Director Dr Dennis Alagoa said on telephone that he was out of town and could not immediately speak on the development.

Shell flags off safe-route-to-school project in Bayelsa

 Shell flags off safe-route-to-school project in Bayelsa

The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) on Wednesday kicked off a safe-route-to-school project for primary school pupils in Bayelsa.

At the inauguration of the project in Bayelsa, Mr Alaye Dokubo, Government and Community Relations Manager, SPDC, in Charge of Bayelsa and Delta Operational Areas, said that safety was fundament in the oil firm’s operations.

He said that the company was committed to ensuring that pupils would receive education in a safe environment.

Dokubo said that the company, in collaboration with the Bayelsa Ministry of Education and the Federal Road Safety Commission, selected six primary schools for the project.

The SPDC official said that the company would provide zebra crossings near the selected schools within high traffic routes, train of teachers to serve as guides, and train pupils on road safety habits.

Mr Nduka Ejoor, the Consultant to SPDC on the project, said that 90 per cent of Nigerian children walked to school and were at risk due to high population of untrained drivers on Nigerian roads.

In his remarks, Mr Ayuba Wobin, the FRSC Bayelsa Sector Commander, commended SPDC for the initiative to instill road safety habits in children.

According to him, the FRSC has developed a road safety curriculum, which is being used by Road Safety Clubs in schools.

He said that the command would work with heads of the six selected schools to inaugurate the clubs.

Mr Markson Fefegha, Bayelsa Commissioner for Education, said that crossing roads was a challenge to both children and adults, and lauded SPDC for reviving the use of zebra crossings.

Fefegha, who was represented by an official of the ministry, Mrs Ann Amosame, said that safe trip to school was achievable with the efforts of the project partners.

Hundreds of primary school pupils from the six selected schools witnessed the launch of the project.

Master Paul Nelson, a pupil of St Mathias Primary School, Amarata, said that provision of zebra crossings on roads would reduce accidents.

He regretted that some pupils had been knocked down by reckless drivers.

Nelson said that the road safety tips given to pupils at the launch would remain valuable, as he would pass them on to his friends not selected.

NSCDC investigates claims of pipeline attacks by Niger Delta Avengers in Bayelsa

NSCDC investigates claims of pipeline attacks by Niger Delta Avengers  in Bayelsa

The Bayelsa Command of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSDC) says it is investigating the claims of pipeline attacks on three crude trunk lines by Niger Delta Avengers.

The militant group had in a statement posted on its website on Wednesday claimed to have attacked pipelines operated by the Nigerian Agip Oil Company in Bayelsa.

The NSCDC said on Wednesday morning that its preliminary investigations showed that contrary to the claims of the Niger Delta Avengers that its fighters destroyed the pipelines in Nembe, the attacks reported occurred in a different location

It said that the compromised trunk lines were located at Lasukugbene in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the state.

The State Commandant of the Corps, Mr Desmond Agu, confirmed to NAN on Wednesday that the command got a report that two explosions rocked the pipelines in Lasukugbene.

Agu said that NSCDC operatives were immediately dispatched to the scene only to discover that the attack was in a different location.

He explained that the explosion cut off the pipeline riser, adding that his men had been combing the area to track down the culprits.

Agu, who said that his command had recorded many successes in the fight against pipeline vandalism in the state, described the incident as an isolated case.

“We have been arresting suspected vandals in the state and that is why Bayelsa has been kept safe from major attacks.

“We have also foiled many attempts in the past to bomb pipelines. We are investigating this matter to bring the culprits to book.

“We are also warning youths in the state to stop causing trouble and to stay away from oil installations and critical national assets. The state and the Niger Delta region need peace to develop,” Agu said. 

Ijaw Professionals Association seeks legalization of local refineries in N/Delta

The Ijaw professionals Association (IPA) on Sunday urged the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to formalize artisanal refineries to create jobs in the Niger Delta.

IPA made the appeal in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Yenagoa.

It called on NCDMB to enhance the participation of oil communities in the oil and gas sector.

The group urged the board to drive an effective collaborative strategy for converting unregulated artisanal refining into a standardized and sustainable local economy of mini-refineries.

The statement signed by Mr Iniruo Wills, President of the association, applauded the NCDMB for the growth of Nigerian content in the oil and gas sector but said that a lot still needs to be done.

IPA congratulated Mr. Simbi Wabote, Executive Secretary, NMDB for his appointment and harped on the need to use to his office to enhance the participation of host communities and their indigenes in the petroleum industry.

The group called on the Board to address the matter issues in a measurable way, to the benefit of communities and the country.

According to IPA, the issues include environmental impact of the petroleum sector with regards to pollution control to ensure that the sector operated in an environmentally sustainable manner.

It noted there was an urgent need to develop adequate indigenous and in-country capacity for dealing with environmental disasters that the petroleum industry has inflicted on host communities since the discovery of oil some 60 years ago.

According to IPA, indigenous capacity building by NCMDB was required in the areas of organizational, logistical, human and financial capacities of oil bearing communities to empower them to participate and compete favorably in the sector.

IPA, umbrella body of Ijaw professionals, prayed for God’s enabling grace upon Wabote and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board. 

Flood: Imiringi Community appeals for completion of bridge destroyed in 2012

Community leaders at Imiring in Ogbia Local Government in Bayelsa have appealed for the speedy reconstruction of a bridge linking two parts of the area destroyed by the 2012 flood disaster.

The regretted that the non completion of the reconstruction of the bridge by Bayelsa government has compelled residents to resort to use of hand-paddled canoe to ferry across the canal created by flood during rainy season.

The Community leaders urged the Bayelsa government and oil firms operating in the area to collaborate to complete the bridge project.

Chief Augustin Imo said that Imiringi community was flooded as Kolo creek Ogbia River received excess water from River Niger forcing them to overflow and cause flooding in the area.


According to him, the flood had created canals within the area which residents have to cross with canoe with associated risks of boat mishap and potential dangers to people who cannot swim.


Imo further explained that the development compels residents to incur additional cost to access other parts of the communities as they had to pay fares to cross the canal by boat.


He therefore urged the Bayelsa government, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and all the multinational oil companies operating in the area to collaborate and pull resources together to complete the bridge.

Chief, Mr Billy Mwodogu told NAN that Imiringi community remianed grateful to Bayelsa government for the extent of  construction on the bridge.


However, he frowned at the attitude of SPDC for not showing concern on the plight of the people who are hosts to its operations since 1973 and had supported the oil firm by providing a peaceful operational atmosphere.


He said that the sight of pupils and students who are attending primary, secondary schools Imiringi town and the dangers they are exposed to daily was a nightmare to behold adding that the cost of boat ride was a burden on parents.

Operation Delta Safe rescues kidnap victims, impounds hard drugs in N/Delta

 Operation Delta Safe rescues kidnap victims, impounds hard drugs in N/Delta

 Troops of the Operation Delta Safe in the Niger Delta have freed nine kidnap victims, impounded 56 bags of Indian hemp, and arrested two suspected drug dealers during an operation.

Lt.-Col. Olaolu Daudu, the Coordinator of the Joint Media Campaign Centre of Operation Delta Safe said in Yenagoa on Saturday that measures had been put in place to restore peace in the region.

“Troops in Delta foiled an armed robbery attempt and rescued 6 civilians returning from market along Bomadi Agadama road by Ohoro Junction in Ughelli North Local Government Area. The suspected robbers fled on sighting troops.

“In another development, troops deployed at Koluama conducted a raid on Sea Pirates’ hideout in Kasabubou Forupa Waterways, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

“Troops rescued three persons namely; Peter Atijera, Lukeman Balogun and Pious John and recovered Speedboat mounted with Double Engine 115/80 Horse Power, 2 Binoculars and one Motorola radio.

“The Air Component of Operation DELTA SAFE while on patrol over Isaka town, Kidney Island, Alakiri and Bille in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State sighted two barges loaded with illegally refined products which were incapacitated,” Daudu said.

According to him, troops of Sector 3 resolved a major fracas between the youths of Ayama village in Aladja community of Warri South West in the process of which one Mr Sunday Obuche of Ayama Community was killed.

Daudu noted that the presence of troops forestalled the degeneration of the crisis and further loss of lives.

He stated that the corpse of Obuche has been deposited at the Oviam Aladja Police Station while a meeting with the warring factions will be held to forestall reprisal attacks.

The spokesman also said the troops rescued three indigenous staff of LEX Oil, who were kidnapped on Nov. 3 at Ikuru town in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers.

“Furthermore, troops in conjunction with personnel of the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) conducted a raid on a suspected illegal drug dealer’s hideout at Emu Obodeti Community in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Delta State.

“The operation led to the arrest of one Moses Eni and Mrs Boyi Kamanda with 55 bags of substance suspected to be Indian hemp recovered.

“The items are in the custody of the NDLEA office in Kwale, Delta State,” Daudu stated.

Corps member feared dead in boat mishap in Bayelsa community

 A National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member is feared drowned in a boat accident on Thursday in Okpotuwari Community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa.

Sources in the communitysaid on Friday that the corps member, who hailed from Anambra drowned when the canoe he boarded capsized.

Mr Tontiemote Yeiyei, a resident of the community said that the deceased, who was serving at Okpotuwari Community had gone to Ondewari with two of his friends across the Osiana creek by a hand paddled canoe.

Yeiyei said the ill-fated canoe encountered rough currents at the jetty as the deceased and the others were returning to Okpotuwari.

He said that following the boat accident, sympathisers quickly raised a search party, during which the two others were rescued alive.

“The rescue team searched for the remains of the drowned corps member to no avail, and local divers later joined them but they are yet to find the body. Hopefully it will be afloat by Saturday.

“The survivors have been stabilised and are being taken care of at a clinic,” Yeiyei said.

Marine police sources in Southern Ijaw said that the incident was yet to be reported.

Eni denies Oil leak at Ikienghenbiri community in Bayelsa as Agip officials recover spilled crude

Eni denies Oil leak at Ikienghenbiri community in Bayelsa as Agip officials recover spilled crude

Eni, Italian parent company of Nigerian Agip Oil Company says it has no evidence of an oil leak from Tebidaba-Ogboinbiri crude line operated by (NAOC) its subsidiary in Nigeria even as oil recovery from the site is ongoing with military cover provided by Nigerian government.

Domenico Spina, Media Relations and Social Network Press Officer, Eni in an email response to the incident on Wednesday said that the oil firm was not aware of the leakage.

“I confirm that to our knowledge we had no evidence about an oil spill in that area. That's for your background.,” Domenico.

The leak which occurred in October discharged massive volume of crude into the surrounding environment at Ikienghenbiri, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa.

Meanwhile a site visit showed that officials of NAOC had commenced recovery of spilled crude from Ikienghenbiri community.

Deposits of crude were seen in the area while large plastic tanks containing recovered crude were sighted by aa Correspondent who visited the site..

One of the workers seen at the site said : ’’I am Finiyofa Nathaniel Corson, the Financial Secretary of Ikienghenbiri community.

“We are engaged in recovery of spilled crude oil here. The spill occurred about two weeks.

“I am here as one of those hired for the recovery job.

“What we are doing in essence is taking the crude oil from the environment to the Geepee tanks and from there they will be transferred to the community.

“From the community the crude oil would be taken away by the company to wherever they desire. And, today is my first time of getting involved with this task relating to the current oil spill.’’ He said

 A resident of the area, Mr Marshall Josiah said that more than 50 plastic tanks of 2,000 litres of crude have alrady been recovered by officials of NAOC qs qt Thursday.

Community sources at Ikienghenbiri said the oil discharege had crippled economic activities in the predominant fishing and farming coastal settlement by the pollution of water bodies and land

Josiah said that oil recovery was still ongoing at the spill site.

Josiah, a former Community Development Committee Chairman in Ikienghenbiri, said that the community had reported the incident promptly but the oil firm delayed its response resulting to the massive leakage.

“Due to the high volume of crude oil leakage, they have not been able to commence the process of clamping the ruptured point.

“They are looking for a way to evacuate the crude oil from the place to enable them access the oil bearing pipe and repair it.

“That is what they are doing now; recovery of spilled crude oil. No JIV has been done on this particular spill incident.

“I saw several Geepee (plastic) tanks being used for the recovery.

“From my observation it may take them up to two or three months to conclude that task, while much of the surrounding bush/ swamp have been completely polluted,” Josiah said.

The community leader regretted that the pollution had depleted the arable land and fishing grounds available to Ikienghenbiri for fishing and farming.

He called for urgent steps to bring relief to the people affected by the spill.

When contacted, Mr Idris Musa, Director in charge of Oil Field Assesment at National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency confirmed that the agency got reports on the incident  

Niger Delta militants group, Bakassi Strike Force surrenders arms

A group in the Niger Delta region, Bakassi Strike Force (BSF), has surrendered part of its arms to show its desire to lay down their arms if the Federal Government addressed their concerns.

Lt.-Col. Olaolu Daudu, the spokesman of Joint Military Force in the Niger Delta confirmed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Yenagoa.

Daudu said that the terms of the surrender were being worked out by Cross River Command of Department of State Security Services and Cross River government.

He said that the militant group had turned in one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) and an AK 47 rifle as a show of good faith towards the peace deal.

“Available information from Sector 4 in Cross River State indicates that Bakassi Strike Force (BSF) militants led by one Mr Benjamin Ene have expressed unreserved willingness to lay down their arms.

“They have contacted the Department of State Service in Cross River State through the State Government’s appointed rappoteur on amnesty to signify their readiness to hold talks on amnesty with the relevant authorities. 

“To buttress this demonstration of goodwill, BSF turned in one General Purpose Machine Gun (GPMG) and an AK 47 rifle. 

“The Department of State Service representatives and representatives of the rappoteur have since recovered the arms as talks are ongoing on modalities to surrender their remaining arms,” Daudu said. 

It will be recalled that leader of the group, Mr Benjamin Ene, aka ‘Humble Lion G1’ had on November 1 expressed the desire to surrender in a video message where he listed conditions for surrendering his stockpile of ammunition..

Ene said that the group was not out to vandalise national assets but for the wellbeing of his people who resided in Bakassi, now ceded to Cameroon.

The leader, who spoke from his camp in the creeks of southern Cross River, said that unlike other militant groups, it had no record of oil installation destruction or molestation of the citizens.

Daudu said that the Acting Commander the Joint Military Force deployed to the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe, Brig.-Gen Kevin Aligbe has applauded the move by the militant group to surrender and embrace peace. .

Aligbe maintained that the military has zero tolerance for militancy and related crimes in the Joint Operations Area and urged other aggrieved groups to emulate the BSF by laying down their arms.

According Daudu, the Commander advised the other Niger Delta militants groups to embrace the reconciliatory channels open at both State and Federal levels.

The spokesman also said that troops of Sector 3, following a tip off on Wednesday swiftly reacted and swooped on suspected sea robbers around Kumfari Community near Idama in Rivers State. 

During the encounter, one suspected sea robber was killed, two were wounded and seven others apprehended as one locally made pistol and machete were recovered. 

He said that the suspects are undergoing further investigation. 

NSCDC arrests 5 suspected oil thieves in Bayelsa

NSCDC arrests 5 suspected oil thieves in Bayelsa

The Bayelsa Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on Monday said it had arrested five suspected oil thieves, believed to be part of a syndicate.

Mr Desmond Agu, the Bayelsa Commandant of the corps, paraded the suspects at the State Command Headquarters in Yenagoa.

He said they were arrested in connection with vandalism of a pipeline belonging to the Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC).

According to Agu, the suspects sneaked into the creeks of Akimoni community at Taylor Creek, Yenagoa Local Government Area of the state, to vandalise the pipeline.

“After they attacked the pipeline, the suspects fled the community.

“But because of our partnership with communities who were not happy with the environmental pollution caused by pipeline vandalism, we were able to apprehend them,” he said.

Agu said that the suspects would be prosecuted and warned youths in the state against attacking critical assets, especially oil installations.

The anti-vandal unit of the corps also intercepted a Toyota Sequa Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) used by vandals to transport illegally-refined petroleum products.

The commandant said that the vigilance of his men led to the interception of the SUV, which was loaded with petroleum products.

He said that preliminary investigations had revealed that the SUV was carrying over 10 drums of illegally-refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO).

“There was no way one would have ordinarily known that a vehicle of that nature with tinted glass would be used to transport stolen products.

“They used empty bags of rice with nylon bags to conceal the product to deceive us; the bags also enabled them move large quantities of stolen product.

“But through continuous training, we have learnt the tricks of criminals, especially vandals of oil installations,’’ the commandant said.

He said that the suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled into the bush when officials of the corps insisted on searching it.

Agu said that the vehicle was, however, towed to the command headquarters for further investigation that could lead to the arrest its owners.

He warned youths in the state to desist from vandalising pipelines to steal petroleum products, stressing that there was no hiding place for such youths.

“Whether the products are transported in SUVs or nylon bags, we will intercept them, arrest the culprits, and prosecute them.“

Agu commended communities in the state for their cooperation and called for more partnership with them through information sharing, to clamp down on vandals.

Shell investigating source of oil leakage in Bayelsa community, says spokesman

Shell investigating source of oil leakage in Bayelsa community, says spokesman

The Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) says the source of an oil leak that polluted Otuokpoti communities in Bayelsa is being investigated.

Mr Precious Okolobo, Medial Relations Manager at SPDC, stated this in a statement on Monday in Yenagoa.

Okolobo, however, said that there was no oil leakage from its operations in the area.

“The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd (SPDC) is investigating reports of a leak around Otuokpiti community waterfront situated downstream the Ekoli River, where a section of SPDC’s Nun River – Kolo Creek Pipeline is buried.

“Preliminary site visits did not indicate any spill.

“SPDC has, however, shut the pipeline as a precautionary measure pending further investigation,” SPDC stated.

Officials of SPDC and Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) at the weekend visited Ekole Creek near Otuokpoti in Bayelsa in search of the source of oil leak in the area.

Residents of Otuokpoti community had on Wednesday reported a massive oil leak from an oil field operated in the area.

A resident of the area, Ms Beatrice Okatubo, told our correspondent on Monday in Yenagoa that officials of SPDC and Agip jointly visited the oil fields to trace the source of oil discharged into the Ekole Creek and the adjoining farmlands.

“Officials of both oil firms visited Otuokpoti to investigate the source of the oil leak and it was traced to Shell but the community had claimed that the spill came from Agip’s facility,” Okatubo said.

Ekole Creek is around Agbura and Otuokpoti communities in Ogbia and Yenagoa local government areas of Bayelsa respectively.

The residents had said the spill resulting from the leak destroyed farmlands and aquatic lives in the communities.

The residents told NAN that crude oil deposits from the spillage, measured about five centimetres thick on the surface of the water, and had been carried away by water current.

Joint Military Fore kills 2, repels attack by Niger Delta Avengers

  The Joint Military Force deployed to the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe says it successfully repelled an attack by Niger Delta Avengers at a gas facility in Delta and killed two pirates in ongoing operations in the region.

A statement by Lt-Col. Olaolu Daudu, Spokesman of the Joint Force made this known in Bayelsa on Tuesday.

Daudu said that the operations were carried out between Saturday and Teusday.

“Troops deployed at Delta State while on watch at the Nigeria Gas Company Outpost in Batan/Egwa Area of Warri South West Local Government of Delta encountered suspected militants who claimed to be members of Niger Delta Avengers.

“They came in two 200 Horsepower Speed capacity boats but were subsequently engaged and repelled. Effort is ongoing to apprehend the criminals.

“Troops also rescued a Passenger boat from sea robbers at Idoro River in Ozobo Community, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State.

“While trying to escape, the sea robbers’ boat collided with that of the passenger boat and capsized.

“Four of the suspected sea robbers were arrested however, four locally made double barrel guns belonging to the suspects fell into the river.

“Efforts are ongoing to recover the guns while suspects are in custody for further investigation. They are presently in custody for further investigation,” Daudu stated.

He also said that troops on patrol at Asugbo Tibigbene and Beneth River Warri South Local Government Area impounded a wooden boat carrying 53 drums of illegally refined substance at Asugbo.

Also, troops while on clearance operation at Yorkiri, Obotobo, Chamomi Creek Okerenkoko and Open river arrested a Cotonou boat conveying Jerrycans for possible loading of substance.

The Spokesman said that in another development troops arrested a 21-year-old man Usman Jafar, an indigene of Adamawa State, who had  been parading himself as a serving soldier.

The suspect allegedly robbed  Atima Aghogho along Ajanuga Road and the following items were also recovered from him, one fake Nigerian Army Identity Card, one First Bank of Nigeria ATM Card and an iphone belonging to one of his victims.

“Following a tip off, troops in conjunction with members of Petroleum Task Force conducted a raid at Ifieporo community in Warri South Local Government and discovered an area used or storage of stolen petroleum products

“Other items discovered are several rubber drums and Jerricans containing substance suspected to be illegal oil bunkering mats.

“Troops also recovered a black coloured Audi vehicles loaded with several water proof bags containing substance suspected to be products of illegal bunkering.

“Following another tip off troops discovered four identified hideouts used for storing substance suspected to be illegally refined Automated Gas Oil around Ohoro junction, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

“No arrests were made while troops are on the trail of the perpetrators,” Daudu stated..

Daudu also said that on Tuesday the troops arrested one suspected bugler while on routine check with N136,000 cash, one Ifinix Note II handset, one venue handset.

He said the items and the suspect would be handed over to the Nigeria Police.

“Troops at Batan reported a loud sound suspected to be an explosion.

“Further findings revealed that a Barge carrying equipment used for the repairs of the Trans Forcados Pipeline at the repair site in Eweregbene community was blown by suspected Niger Delta Avengers militants who retreated after troops repelled the attack.

“However, 2 un-exploded dynamites were found at the scene on a branch and swamp buggy were successfully detonated by troops.,” Daudu stated.

Oil leak from Agip Oil pipeline pollutes Ikienghenbiri community in Bayelsa

Oil leak from Agip Oil pipeline pollutes Ikienghenbiri community in Bayelsa

 An oil leak from Tebidaba-Ogboinbiri crude line operated by Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) has discharged massive volume of crude into the surrounding environment.

This is contained in a field report by Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) made available on Monday in Yenagoa.

According to the report, officials of NAOC had commenced recovery of spilled crude from Ikienghenbiri community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area (LGA) of Bayelsa.

The report signed by Mr Alagoa Morris, Head of Field Operations at ERA/FoEN said that more than 30 plastic tanks of 2,000 litres of crude have already been recovered by officials of NAOC.

ERA/FoEN regretted that a Joint Investigative Visit (JIV) was yet to be conducted to ascertain the cause of the leak and therefore urged the management of NAOC to urgently convene a JIV to the spill impacted site.

Community sources at Ikienghenbiri said the development had crippled economic activities in the predominant fishing and farming coastal settlement.

They said that oil recovery was still ongoing at the spill site.

Mr Marshall Josiah, a former Community Development Committee Chairman in Ikienghenbiri, said that the community had reported the incident promptly but the oil firm delayed its response resulting to the massive leakage.

“Due to the high volume of crude oil leakage, they have not been able to commence the process of clamping the ruptured point.

“They are looking for a way to evacuate the crude oil from the place to enable them access the oil bearing pipe and repair it.

“That is what they are doing now; recovery of spilled crude oil. No JIV has been done on this particular spill incident.

“I saw several Geepee (plastic) tanks being used for the recovery.

“From my observation it may take them up to two or three months to conclude that task, while much of the surrounding bush/ swamp have been completely polluted,” Josiah said.

The community leader regretted that the pollution had depleted the arable land and fishing grounds available to Ikienghenbiri for fishing and farming.

He called for urgent steps to bring relief to the people affected by the spill.

Officials of NAOC declined comments when contacted for comments.

Mr Filippo Cotalinni, Media Relations Manager, at Eni, parent company of NAOC is yet to respond to a request for comments on the incident. (NAN)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

4,100 non militant youths benefit from World Bank-EU skills acquisition scheme in Bayelsa

Bayelsa  government Sunday said that 4,100 non violent youths in the state benefitted from the State Employment and Expenditure for Results (SEEFOR) Project skills training programme between 2015 and 2016.

Deputy Governor Chief John Jonah disclosed this while speaking at the opening ceremony of SEEFOR youth training programme on money management and entrepreneurship skills in Yenagoa, the state capital.

A new batch of 3,000 beneficiaries have been engaged and are being trained to execute the current phase of the labour-intensive public works component of the SEEFOR Project.

The training is intended to enable beneficiaries use their compulsory savings of N5,000 monthly out of N20,000 monthly stipend to start their business after their one year training.

 Jonah attributed the success recorded to the existing partnership between the World  Bank, European Union, Federal Government of Nigeria and the Bayelsa State Government who are the funders of the project.

 Jonah was represented by the Permanent Secretary at the state Ministry of Science and Technology, Bomonyo Amachree, who is also the Chairman of the Technical Committee of the training programme.

He advised the beneficiaries not to misunderstand the project as the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) of the Federal Government  for former militants in the Niger Delta region.

 The deputy governor explained that the PAP was designed for people who have not behaved well by working against the laws of the country.

 He also clarified that the SEEFOR programme is designed for those who are God-fearing, civil and ready to acquire skills.

 While challenging beneficiaries of the training programme to exploit the opportunity to better their future, Jonah insisted that the beneficiaries are not like ex-militants who are being treated in an atmosphere of tension.

Mr Tarinyo Akono,  SEEFOR Communications Officer, explained that trainings are being conducted at  Ogbia town for beneficiaries in Ogbia, Brass and Nembe LGAs, and at Amassoma town for Southern Ijaw LGA beneficiaries.

Also at Ekeremor and Sagbama town  for beneficiaries in Ekeremor, Sagbama and Kolokuma/Opokuma LGA.

 He noted that it is not easy to work and save resources considering the harsh economic realities, emphasizing that the impact of the training would be realized if the beneficiaries put what they have learnt to practice.

In his remarks, SEEFOR Project Acting Co-Ordinator, Mr Charles Enuma, said that the SEEFOR has Craft Development Centres in Sagbama, Polaku in Yenagoa LGA, and Nembe to ensure that youths acquire skills.

Enuma expressed satisfaction that the state government has so far not failed in youth empowerment in the state and enjoined beneficiaries of the training programme to take the acquisition of skills seriously. 

Bayelsa Govt state-of-the-art diagnostics centre to tackle wrong diagnosis in Nigeria- Dickson

Bayelsa Govt state-of-the-art diagnostics centre to tackle wrong diagnosis in Nigeria- Dickson

The Bayelsa government on Sunday said that it embarked on the state-of-the-art medical diagnostic centre to reduce frequent foreign trips by Nigerians.  

Gov. Seriake Dickson bemoaned the incessant cases of wrong diagnoses of ailments in the country, saying it remained a major challenge to Nigerians.

According to him, he was motivated by the problem to make a huge investment in the health sector of the state to serve as a heath tourism centre for Nigerians and the rest of Africa.

Dickson who spoke when he inspected the state’s ultra-modern Diagnostics Centre in Yenagoa.

 He explained that having been fully completed, the centre had already commenced a dry run of the equipment and called on residents to put the facility to good use.

“What we are addressing now is diagnosis. Because what is killing our people is wrong and inaccurate diagnosis. So we are addressing that. We are building hospitals and this place will feed most of them”, the governor said.

The governor said the vision of his administration was to make the state a haven for people who need to satisfy their health needs.

He also inspected the state’s golf course, heliport, ongoing government house and the oxbow lake project.

The centre operated by Trigen-Craton in the heart of Yenagoa offers radiography services with the latest facilities in the industry including Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Tesla, CT Scan 160 slice, digital x-ray, 40-sonography, mammography among others.

The centr also provides expertise in pathology which includes services like haematology, clinical chemistry, immunology, endocrinology and immunology.

Other services rendered by the centre are: DNA testing, Endoscopy, cardiology and general wellness.

During the inspection, the governor noted that the project was built to last, explaining that all Nigerians could access the services of the centre as it was open for service to members of the public. .

“From the report, this project has been completed a long time.  What they are just doing is to test-run the facilities.. All the machines are world class. All the projects have been painstakingly done.

“This is a project that will stand the test of time and it is of the highest possible quality.  We are building a Bayelsa that is for the future and this project is one of its kind in the country and in Africa”, he said.

He added that the people of the state would be grateful to the administration when they are able to access the level of investment that was made on the project.

“Even if people don’t appreciate it, it doesn’t matter, we are doing it for posterity. The facilities here, no Bayelsa person needs to go outside this place for diagnosis.

“ Just anybody in this country can be attended to here. We are taking an integrated approach to development. People can fly in from the airport that we are building.

“Our philosophy is to bring the world to Bayelsa. This will promote medical tourism and we will build our economy this way”. Dickson said.

The governor explained that when the nearby 350-bed capacity hospital commences operation, it would complement the diagnostics centre and make the state prominent for medical tourism.

Clean-Up of Niger Delta crucial to economic diversification-Environmentalist

Mr Iniruo Wills, an Environmentalist says the clean-up of oil pollution in the Niger Delta environment is fundamental to the economic diversification policy of the federal government.

Wills, a former Commissioner for Environment said in Yenagoa on Sunday that the environment in oil communities had been neglected for several decades by oil firms and governments.

He said that diversification into agriculture and other revenue sources being canvassed as a way out of the current economic downturn would remain a mirage unless the environment was cleaned and restored.

He said that it was unfortunate that despite the central role played by the environment as a support for life and economic activities the country collectively neglected its environment resources which ought to be preserved.

He explained that the environment was a common heritage which provides support to mankind as well as the food chain amongst other bio resources in the ecosystem to support life.

He observed that the rapid rate at which aluminum and iron roofing sheets and even house paints wear out in the region was an indicator that the atmosphere had high concentration of toxic substances.

“The collective neglect of the environment in the oil communities in Bayelsa and across the Niger Delta since oil was struck in Oloibiri is what has led to the current state of the environment.

“The Pollution level has gone so high that the environment can no longer support fishing and farming and has eroded the livelihoods of our people who depend on the environment for sustenance.

“And all of a sudden we are talking of diversification, it must be a joke because the soil is polluted and so toxic, so diversification at lease in the Niger Delta cannot happen with the environment polluted.

“I think the stakeholders have to declare a state of emergency on the Niger Delta environment and take deliberate steps to restore the environment to its natural state even if it means putting a moratorium on environment.

“The toxicity level of the environment is frightening, for instance a pilot study carried out across the Niger Delta states showed clearly a pollution of surface and underground waters beyond safe limits.

“The same study revealed that the benzene gas found in the air we breathe is 1,000 times above internationally acceptable safe limits.

“Despite the alarming results no state government across the region has deemed it fit to extend the scope of the study to cover wider areas, the neglect by federal government is obvious but what about our governors who are even nearer to us?

“Since 1999 we have been governed by our own people and we have to hold them accountable,” Will said.

He therefore advised that government should take steps to clean up oil pollution in the Niger Delta and take steps to conserve the environment as a foundational step before diversification into agriculture in the Niger Delta region.

Niger Delta Monarch reiterates constitutional role for traditional institution

Niger Delta Monarch reiterates constitutional role for traditional institution

 A monarch in Bayelsa, King Okpoitari Diongoli, on Friday reiterated the call on the federal government to strengthen the traditional institution by assigning a constitutional role.

Diongoli repeated the call in a paper titled, "The Role of Traditional Rulers in Maintaining Peace/ Security in their Communities", which he delivered at a capacity building workshop in Yenagoa..

 The organised by the Paramount Rulers Integral (PRI) in Yenagoa, Bayelsa.

 Okpoitari, traditional ruler of Opokuma Kingdom in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area argued that giving constitutional role to monarchs would empower them as symbols of authority and spiritual heads of their domains.

Okpoitari, stated that as number one citizens of their kingdom, the monarchs have a responsibility to maintain peace and security in their areas.

 He decried the lack of necessary tools for traditional rulers to carry out their functions properly.

 According to him, traditional rulers are expected to educate and enlighten their people on policies and programmes of government, and to interface between their kingdoms and the authorities.

 Okpoitari further identified  poverty, lack of respect for the traditional rulers by the authorities  and the subjects, poor institutional framework, ruling from exile or by proxy, among others, as factors affecting the performance of traditional rulers.

 He advised them to operate a transparent and accountable system as well as revive the customs and traditions of their communities.

 "Those not helpful to the current realities can be done away with"., he advised.

 He therefore advocated for an enhanced welfare and provision of security to enable them work better.

In his remarks, the chairman of PRI and traditional ruler of Aduku, Kabowei Kingdom in Sagbama Local Government Area, Chief Emmanuel Emberru, commended Governor Seriake Dickson for approving their classification.

"I will appeal to us, due to the biting economic situation in the country, and in Bayelsa in particular, we should allow government to carry out the  process in phases.

“Giving staff of office, certificates, Justice of Peace (JP) and being gazette to be carried out in phases", he said.

Militants blow up crude export line at NPDC's Flow Station in Delta

Shortly after the meeting between Niger Delta people and federal government to end hostilities on oil facilities, suspected militants have again blown up a crude export ine, effectively crippling oil production.

 The Joint military force deployed to the Niger Delta to protect oil infrastructure on Wednesday confirmed an explosion at an oil field operated by Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) in Delta.

Lt.-Col. Olaolu Daudu, Spokesman of the joint force codenamed Operation Delta Safe who confirmed the development in Yenagoa on Wednesday said investigations had commenced.

He said that troops deployed to the area on Wednesday heard an explosion at the Bantan flow station run by NPDC, a subsidiary of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

"Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE located at Sector 1, in Delta State while on routine patrol heard an explosive sound caused by suspected Economic Saboteurs at Batan Flow Station around Ekweregbene, Bantan general area.

"The incidence is however being investigated and details will be made available as events unfold.

"Also troops of Forward Operation Base deployed at Bonny in Rivers State while on anti - crude oil theft/ illegal bunkering patrol, discovered two illegal refinery sites along Ogbunku Creek and recovered three 40 Horse Power outboard engines and three pumping machines," Daudu said.

Community sources in the area said that no militant group has claimed responsibility for the explosion coming barely 24 hours after the Niger Delta stakeholders meeting with the stakeholders presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari pledged to end attacks on oil facilities.

It was gathered that the attack breached a crude export line that was commissioned on Monday.

Oil leak from Agip's field pollutes Otuokpoti community in Bayelsa

Residents on Wednesday reported a massive oil leak in Ekole Creek around Agbura and Otuokpoti communities in Ogbia and Yenagoa local government Areas of Bayelsa.

They said the spill resulting from the leak from an oilfield operated by Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) destroyed farmlands and aquatic lives in the communities.

Community residents said that crude oil deposits from the spillage which measured about five centimeter thick on the surface of the water.

The incident attracted residents who trooped out to scoop the flowing crude oil.

A resident of Otuokpoti community , Mrs Cecilia Osain said the spillage has negatively affected fishing activities in the river.

According to her, those who went fishing came back with no catch as the crude oil has compelled the fishes , crayfish and shrimps away into the high seas beyond the reach of artisanal fishermen.

Osain ,who also scooped the crude said, bathing in the river is no longer safe for residents as those who did complained of itching all over their bodies.

She said that the community relied on the creek for water for drinking and domestic use.

Meanwhile, the people of Otuokpoti community have appealed to the government of Bayelsa s to provide relief materials to ameliorate the plight of the people.

In a letter signed by the Paramount ruler,Chief Cousin Wongo and Chairman, Community Development Committee, Hon. Simpson Isikpi, the community noted that the spillage which polluted the entire river.

According to the letter, the incident has negatively affected the economic life of the people as the river serves as a major source of income to members of the community.

“We cannot drink water , we cannot bathe in the river, our aquatic life such as fish and animals are dying. We appeal to the relevant authorities to come to our aid” the letter read in part.

They also appealed for the immediate cleanup of the river to enable the people resume their fishing activities.

Speaking in the same vein, spokesperson of the youth wing of the Ogbia Brotherhood, Comrade Lamawal Wilfred called on operators affected pipeline to send experts to ascertain the cause of the leak.

 He urged NAOC to prevent further pollution of the river which serves as their major source of water.

When our Correspondent visited the community, residents were seen scooping crude into containers, while the whole air was polluted from the gas from crude oil.

Officials of NAOC declined comments when contacted for comments.

Mr Filippo Cotalinni, Media Relations Manager, at Eni, parent company of NAOC has yet to respond to a request for comments on the incident.

Bakassi Strike Force militant group ready to lay down arms, says its agitation not targeted at oil facilities

Bakassi Strike Force militant group ready to lay down arms, says its agitation not targeted at oil facilities

The Bakassi Strike Force (BSF) a militant group in the Niger Delta region on Tuesday expressed a desire to lay down arms to the federal government if the concerns of Bakassi returnees were addressed under a scheme midwife by international mediators.

A leader of BSF, Mr Simply Benjamin, aka ‘Humble Lion G1’ in a telephone interview on Tuesday claimed that the grievances of the group had nothing to do with vandalism of national assets.

He said that it was regrettable that military authorities had killed several innocent people in the guise of trailing members of the military group and in the process abusing the human rights of the people resident in the area.

He urged the federal government to withdraw the military from his community as they were in the struggle for self determination and posed no threat to national security.

Benjamin who spoke from his camp in the creeks of Southern Cross River said that unlike other militant groups, they have no record of destroying oil installations and were not involved in molesting innocent citizens.

He said that despite offering to work with the government to address the concerns of the Bakassi returnees, the military had been on his trail and disrupting residents near his camp.

He said that BSF has been agitating against the poor implementation of the Greentree Agreement after ceding Bakassi to Cameroon leaving Nigerians resident in the Peninsular without proper resettlement.

He said that the group was ready to lay down their arms and embrace dialogue under a process to be brokered by the international community to ensure that the Nigerian returnees were properly resettled and rehabilitated.

“Our grievance against the federal government has to do with the way Nigeria ceded our ancestral land to Cameroon without recourse to the feelings and rights of the people to self determination.

“Under the Greentree agreement there were steps to be taken to ensure that the fundamental rights of the returnees were protected but the government has not fulfilled its obligations under the agreement.

“We have not resorted to destroying national assets like other Niger Delta militants because it does not make sense, if we destroy assets that yield revenue, how will the federal government get money to fund the projects we yearn for?,” Benjamin said.

Meanwhile the Joint Military Force Deployed to the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe said that it has degraded the capacity of the group and has its intensified operations to flush out members of the group.

The military had raided several camps and shrines used by the militants and discovered over 25 decomposing human skulls and killed no fewer than 15 suspected members of the armed group in cross fire.

Lt.-Col. Olaolu Daudu, Spokesman of the Joint Force had in a statement said that troops raided the BSF camp on October 29.

“Troops of Sector 4 deployed at Efut Esighi in Southern Cross River State during anti militancy operation raided Efut Esighi forest and killed a notorious militant popularly known as Okon Iyo while he was trying to escape.

“Similarly, troops discovered the dead body of one of the Bakassi Strike Force militant who was earlier engaged in Efut Esighi but escaped with gun injuries.

“His body was seen in a bush close to the main road in Effionsa, Bakassi Local Government Area.  Meanwhile, troops also raided the compound of a suspected member of Bakassi Strike Force; Mr Otobong Sunday Essien,  at Road 27 Resettlement Center Bakassi. 

“A Motor Bike was recovered from his compound. In addition, troops intercepted a Passat wagon car owned by a suspected Bakassi Strike Force militant known as “G1”. He is the sentry Commander of the group,” Daudu said.

Daudu said that troops deployed at Ikang border while on patrol at Ikot Offing Ambai in Akpabuyo LGA in Cross River discovered militants’ shrine and also apprehended the Chief Priest of the group.

The Spokesman assured law abiding members of the communities of their safety in the ongoing military crackdown on the militants.