The Federal Government has pledged swift intervention to address shoreline erosion, flooding, and environmental degradation threatening Ugbokodo community in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State.
The assurance was given by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, during a meeting in Abuja with a delegation from Okpe Kingdom led by the Orodje of Okpe, Felix Mujakperuo. The delegation included Ede Dafinone.
Speaking during the engagement, Akume commended the traditional ruler’s leadership and reassured the delegation that the Federal Government was not deliberately ignoring the community’s ecological challenges. He described the concerns raised as legitimate and deserving of urgent attention, promising that the issues would receive serious consideration aimed at ensuring tangible action.
The visit spotlighted the worsening environmental conditions in Ugbokodo, where years of shoreline erosion and coastal encroachment have continued to endanger lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure. Community leaders emphasised that despite Ugbokodo’s role as an oil-producing host community, residents have borne the heavy burden of flooding and land loss.
Senator Dafinone stressed the importance of environmental justice for host communities, noting that sustainable national development must include the protection of areas contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic resources. He reaffirmed his commitment to collaborating with relevant federal agencies to secure lasting solutions for the community.
Other members of the delegation included Benedict Etanabene, alongside prominent Okpe leaders. They collectively underscored the urgency of federal intervention to halt further environmental damage and prevent additional losses.
The meeting represents a renewed push by Okpe stakeholders to secure federal support for shoreline protection and ecological sustainability, reinforcing calls for proactive measures to safeguard vulnerable Niger Delta communities.
