Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara is demanding a rapid and permanent end to the ongoing gas leak affecting the Bille community in Degema Local Government Area. During an urgent meeting with stakeholders, he guaranteed that his administration is fully dedicated to mitigating the environmental and health risks faced by local residents. As part of this commitment, the governor promised to renovate the local Primary Healthcare Centre to better handle the medical needs of the population.
This gathering brought together officials from the Federal Government, state representatives, and community leaders to evaluate the impact of the pollution and strategize on long-term remedies. Governor Fubara highlighted that the state has been working closely with industry operators and federal officials to uncover the source of the leak.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Ekperikpe Ekpo, expressed appreciation for the governor’s active leadership. He clarified that the Federal Government has been engaged since the incident began, though the lack of nearby oil or gas infrastructure made initial investigations difficult. Ekpo emphasized that public safety remains the government’s primary duty.
Representing the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, CEO Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan committed to providing immediate relief, such as clean water and fire safety equipment, to help the community. Chief Rena Dappa, speaking for the Bille Kingdom, urged both levels of government to expedite their intervention to protect the health and livelihood of those living in the area.
