The Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO) has decried the high rate of environmental degradation and neglect of coastal communities of Eastern Obolo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom by oil companies.
Mr Clifford Thomas, Akwa Ibom CLO Chairman, said on Sunday in Uyo that the oil companies, through their activities had destroyed aquatic lives
He said the organisation carried out a survey based on complaints it received from the indigenes of the area.
“The executive council of the Eastern Obolo unit of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria complained of issues that go beyond the union.
“They include infringement of basic rights of persons living in the area who are affected by the activities of oil companies and militants.
“The Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules posits very clearly that in the event that fundamental rights have been violated, or likely to be abused, anybody or organisation has the locus standi to intervene.
“Such intervention is generally comprehensive, to wit; to prevent such abuse, or get relief for the victims; this, the union has done by inviting the CLO to assist,” he said.
According to him, there has been violation of Local Content Act of 60 per cent in personnel and materials in the oil and gas sector.
He said that vessels and oil rigs and platforms operating within the areas, refused to employ persons from Eastern Obolo.
Thomas said that large chunk of coastal plains have been lost to the “over-heated water,’’ adding that if urgent measures are not taken, Eastern Obolo might be “washed into the Atlantic Ocean.’’
NAN
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