The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to classify oil-producing communities in Ondo State as disaster zones due to severe environmental damage.
Donald Ojogo, representing Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency, brought the matter to the House, stressing the urgent need for national intervention.
The coastal communities are facing significant challenges due to rising sea levels and ocean surges.
Ojogo noted that these four oil-producing communities contribute around 5.8% of Ondo’s daily crude oil production, which is essential to Nigeria’s oil revenue.
Despite their contribution, these areas have been battling relentless sea encroachments for over 20 years, displacing thousands and destroying homes.
In addition to the human toll, the ocean surges have disrupted oil activities and threatened the local peace.
Some communities, like Awoye, are being divided by the advancing sea, worsening the crisis.
The lawmaker raised concerns that local government efforts have been insufficient to address the ongoing submersion of these communities.
The situation has been widely reported as a stark example of environmental destruction.
Ojogo called for immediate federal support to protect these communities and ensure stability in the region.
He also mentioned two bills he sponsored that are currently in the House, aiming to establish educational institutions in Ondo State to further boost local development.
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