The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has disclosed that preliminary investigations into the Bille gas spill have confirmed the contamination of the community’s underground water sources.
The revelation came during a high-level visit to the affected community by top officials of the commission. Speaking on behalf of the NUPRC Chief Executive, Mr Gbenga Komolafe, the Executive Commissioner for Health, Safety, Environment and Community, Mrs Ejiro Eyesan, said the commission has launched a thorough and scientific probe to identify the exact source of the seepage.
“Preliminary investigations have been completed, but we are taking our time to avoid creating further hazards before any intervention,” Mrs Eyesan stated.
She added that an international company has been engaged to conduct detailed studies, with fieldwork scheduled to commence before the end of July, and that experts from across the oil and gas industry have also been mobilised to support the ongoing investigation.
The visit also saw a Federal Government delegation deliver immediate relief materials to the community, with assurances of further support including medical outreach services, medical supplies, firefighting equipment, clean water supply, and assistance with electricity.
Responding on behalf of the people of Bille, the Chairman of the Bille Council of Chiefs, Alabo Okpokia Dokubo, called on the authorities to match their promises with concrete action.
