The Obololi community in the Southern Ijaw LGA of Bayelsa has reported no relief after the February 16 oil leak, which discharged crude and polluted the River Nun.

The National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency traced the spill to a 16-inch Nun River-Kolo Creek underwater pipeline operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company.

However, the Obololi Community Development Committee chairman, Goodnews Okoi, also confirmed the report of no response in an interview on Tuesday.

He noted that the riverine community, located along the banks of the river nun, is facing severe water scarcity amid a cholera outbreak across Bayelsa.

Lamenting the pollution of the river, which previously served as the community’s primary source of drinking and domestic water, Mr Okoi said residents were now forced to rely on sachet water at exorbitant prices.

“We feel abandoned. This oil spillage has adversely impacted the entire community. We have suspended our fishing vocation as our farmlands and creeks are also not spared.

“In fact what the officials of SPDC tell us is that unless the Joint Investigative Visit concludes on equipment failure, SPDC will not act. Also, we have been expecting relief from the state government following the visit of the Bayelsa commissioner for environment.

“The local government chairman, Target Segibo, offered to rehabilitate an existing borehole. They started repairs, but the submersible pump failed, and they are yet to procure any replacement,” Mr Okoi said.

Mr Okoi noted that the oil company had yet to engage the community on NOSDRA’s recommendation to divert the river to access the leak point.

He expressed concerns that constructing a dam to divert the river could disrupt the navigability of the River Nun.

SPDC’s spokesperson, Michael Adande, said previously that the company had shut oil feeds into the leaking pipeline.

(NAN)