Delta state coastal communities on brick of collapse amid ocean surge crisis

September 10, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

A devastating ocean surge has ravaged Ogheye Eghoroke and surrounding communities in Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State, leaving a trail of destruction and displacement in its wake.

The affected areas, which include Orere, Ogheye Zion, and Ogheye Ajadogo, have been inundated with water, resulting in the loss of homes, schools, and vital infrastructure.

A team from the Office of the Sole Representative of the Olu of Warri/Liaison to NNPCL visited the affected areas and witnessed the dire situation firsthand.

The delegation saw widespread devastation, including the complete destruction of Ugbeni Primary School and several homes, including the residence of the community leader.

Residents have been forced to seek shelter in overcrowded conditions, with some homes accommodating up to ten people.

The community’s only borehole, which provided clean drinking water, has been claimed by the ocean, leaving residents reliant on ocean water for bathing and without access to clean drinking water.

The situation in neighboring communities is equally dire, with Ogheye Zion and Ogheye Ajadogo entirely submerged. Efforts to reach Orere were unsuccessful due to lack of access.

The legacy of oil exploration in the area has contributed to the devastation, with over 60 years of oil extraction activities eroding coastlines and leaving communities vulnerable to the encroaching ocean.

The combined effects of oil extraction and natural forces have destroyed homes, schools, and livelihoods, and polluted the environment, leading to a high infant mortality rate.

The affected communities are calling for urgent Government intervention to address the humanitarian crisis and provide support for those affected.

“We urgently appeal to the Federal Government of Nigeria, Delta State Government, NGOs, the United Nations, and all compassionate individuals and organizations to provide immediate assistance to the vulnerable communities of Ogheye Eghoroke and its neighbors.

“The devastating destruction of essential infrastructure, including schools, homes, and clean water sources, has culminated in a dire humanitarian crisis.

“We specifically call on Chevron, with its extensive history in the region, to take the lead in addressing this crisis. The company’s presence has contributed to environmental degradation, and it is now imperative that they take meaningful action to support the affected communities” residents said

The ongoing environmental genocide demands swift attention, as the future of these communities hangs precariously in the balance.