IYC Raises Alarm Over Prolonged Gas Leak in Bayelsa, Warns Oando of Possible Shutdown

The Ijaw Youth Council IYC, Central Zone, has raised alarm over a prolonged gas leakage in Azuzuama Community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, accusing Oando PLC of failing to take decisive action to address the situation.

The Chairman of the council, Dr Enebraye Patrick Orusengha, who led a delegation on an inspection visit to the affected area, said the leakage had persisted for about two months and 11 days without adequate intervention.

Orusengha said the incident had severely affected the community’s livelihood, particularly because the river was central to the economic and cultural activities of residents.

He said residents had been unable to safely use the affected water for drinking and cooking, while fishing and other river-dependent activities had been disrupted.

The chairman called on Oando to immediately address the source of the leakage, prevent further environmental damage and provide relief to households whose livelihoods had been affected.

He also criticised the company for failing to provide relief materials since the incident began, saying families dependent on fishing had been left to cope with prolonged economic hardship.

Orusengha further raised concerns over electricity supply in the community, saying available information indicated that Azuzuama had a 100KVA generator that had remained idle for a prolonged period.

He questioned why the company, which operates in the area and reportedly has access to diesel from its operations, had not provided the fuel required to power the facility.

The IYC chairman also criticised reliance on provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in responding to community concerns, saying statutory provisions should not replace practical engagement and corporate responsibility towards host communities.

He urged Oando to engage directly with Azuzuama representatives, provide assistance to affected households and take comprehensive steps to restore safety and normal economic activity.

Orusengha warned that the council’s patience should not be interpreted as acceptance of the situation.

He said that if Oando failed to resolve the leakage and address the outstanding concerns, the IYC Central Zone would convene a council congress in Azuzuama to determine the next course of action, including possible calls for the suspension of the company’s operations through lawful and peaceful means.

The IYC said it would continue to pursue dialogue and established channels of engagement while seeking a resolution to the concerns affecting the community.