“We Are Drinking Poison”: Women and children suffer as gas leak pollutes rivers in Rivers State
Residents of Oshie and Akinima communities in Rivers State are living in fear as a persistent gas leak from an Oando underwater pipeline contaminates the Orashi River, their primary source of water, food, and livelihood.
“We are really worried. After drinking the water, both children and adults feel sickly. We now have to buy sachet water,” lamented Mrs. Ngozi Ididie, 59, as she stood helplessly by the river that once sustained her community. “This river was like a blessing from God, but now it has turned into a source of illness.”
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For over a year, the river has been slowly poisoned, yet life continues along its banks: children bathe, women soak cassava for fufu, and fishermen cast their nets, all under the looming threat of contamination.
A recent visit to the riverside revealed pipes and excavated areas, suggesting maintenance or replacement efforts. However, the leak remains visible: bubbles rise from beneath the water about 80 meters from the bank, while a thin layer of hydrocarbons floats on the surface. Half-submerged sacks of fermenting cassava underscore the community’s struggle to maintain daily life.
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Health and Livelihood at Risk
Repeated pleas to the oil company appear ignored. Residents report rising cases of gastroenteritis, skin rashes, and other illnesses linked to the polluted water.
His Royal Highness Patrick Miller, the Paramount Ruler of Oshie, expressed frustration over prolonged neglect. “The gas leakage has persisted for over a year. Orashi River is our only source of drinking water. Women soak cassava in it; fishermen rely on it for their livelihood. Dead fish are now common, and the river has turned our cassava black and useless,” he said.
He added, “We have seen cases of vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes. Something has to be done. The company must provide portable water and compensation for medical expenses and loss of livelihood.”
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Community Leaders Speak Out
Onem Okenya, President of the Engenni Youth Assembly, accused Oando of ignoring the crisis. “They know about the pollution but have not taken any meaningful action. Hydrocarbon pollution like benzene is dangerous; it is carcinogenic. Our women and children are drinking and bathing in it, and our men can no longer fish safely.”
Local women, including Mrs. Queen Jacob, described the impact on daily life: “This river is where we bathe, fetch water, soak cassava, and fish. Now, we cannot catch fish, and bathing causes itching and irritation.”
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Call for Action
Environmental advocates have also urged swift intervention. Mr. Alagoa Morris, Deputy Executive Director of the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), said, “The government must ensure access to clean water and healthcare services. Oando should compensate affected communities for the damage to their environment and livelihoods.”
Despite repeated warnings, the people of Oshie and Akinima continue to live with thirst, fear, and uncertainty, hoping that their cries will finally be heard.
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