The Enemi Grassroot Network (EGN) has called on NNPCL 18 and relevant government agencies to urgently remove a 20-room houseboat that reportedly sank at Kongi-Ama, Elem Krakrama, on April 13, 2025.
In a statement signed by its leader, Sir Alabo Columbus Columbus Enemi, the group expressed concern that the wreck has remained at the location for more than a year, posing potential risks to the safety, environment and livelihoods of residents.
EGN accused NNPCL 18 of failing to adequately address the situation and urged the company to take responsibility for the safe and environmentally responsible removal of the wreck if investigations establish its responsibility for the vessel and its operations.
The group said the sunken structure was particularly concerning because the waterway serves as the main means of transportation for residents of Elem Krakrama.
According to EGN, residents depend on the waterway for transportation, fishing, movement of goods and access to neighbouring communities.
It warned that the submerged houseboat could pose risks to boat operators, fishermen, children and other users of the waterway, with a possible collision potentially resulting in damage to boats, injuries or loss of lives.
The group also raised concerns about possible environmental impacts from the prolonged presence of the vessel.
However, EGN clarified that it was not claiming that the wreck had caused confirmed chemical or petroleum pollution, but called for scientific investigations to determine whether any contamination had occurred.
It urged relevant environmental authorities to conduct water and sediment tests around the wreck and make the findings public.
EGN also called for an immediate underwater and structural assessment of the houseboat, a hydrographic or bathymetric survey of the affected waterway, and the deployment of warning markers and other navigational safety measures pending its removal.
The group further demanded that relevant authorities develop a safe salvage plan, engage traditional and community leaders throughout the process and investigate whether the wreck had affected fishing, transportation or other livelihoods in the community.
EGN said NNPCL 18 should provide residents with a clear timeline for the inspection, salvage and complete removal of the houseboat, where responsibility is established.
The group urged authorities not to wait for an accident, loss of life or major pollution incident before taking action.
“Over one year and four months is too long,” EGN said, calling on NNPCL 18 to take responsibility, government agencies to inspect and regulate, environmental authorities to assess the impact and relevant authorities to secure the waterway.
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to advocating peacefully for the safety, dignity and environmental protection of the people of Elem Krakrama.
“Our waterways are our roads. Our environment is our heritage. Our people’s lives must come first,” the group stated.
