NUPRC Confirms Contamination in Rivers State Aquifer Due to Gas Leak
The Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has announced a preliminary assessment indicating that the primary aquifer in the Biru community of Degema Local Government Area in Rivers State has suffered contamination due to a prolonged toxic gas leak that has persisted for nearly a year.
In a statement released on Thursday, NUPRC Chairman Oritumeyiwa Isan shared insights from a joint visit to the affected regions with a federal government delegation, including Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo. The delegation’s initial stop was a courtesy meeting with Rivers State Governor Siminalai Hubala before proceeding to Biru community.
During the visit, the NUPRC reported that the federal government provided relief supplies to local residents. Immediate humanitarian assistance was promised, including potable water, medical aid, firefighting equipment, and power supply support, in addition to commitments for sustainable solutions to the environmental crisis.
Isan emphasized the cautious approach the commission is taking as investigations into the source of the gas leak progress. He noted, “We have engaged an international company to conduct a thorough investigation, expected to commence by the end of July.” He reassured residents that technical experts from the oil and gas sector are collaborating to pinpoint the leak’s origins and pledged regular updates as the investigation unfolds.
First Aquifer Contamination Confirmed
During discussions, Isan detailed the immediate impact of the gas leak, confirming that the community’s primary aquifer is indeed contaminated. Aquifers are vital underground layers of permeable rock, sand, or gravel that store and transport usable groundwater.
“Our assessment indicates that the first aquifer is contaminated. We are committed to providing clean drinking water as quickly as possible while working toward a long-term sustainable solution,” he stated. This official acknowledgment of groundwater contamination marks a significant recognition of the adverse effects of long-term gas seepage in oil-producing regions.
This declaration follows a Premium Times investigation, published on June 15, which highlighted how toxic fumes have severely disrupted the lives and livelihoods of local residents for almost a year. Observations from the area revealed gas visibly escaping from multiple points on the river’s surface, causing the water to bubble violently, resembling boiling liquid. A nearby sign pointed to the presence of a high-pressure gas pipeline transporting crude oil and natural gas.
Located in the eastern Niger Delta, Biru is home to Oil Mining Lease (OML) 18, a prominent onshore oil and gas field that spans approximately 1,035 square kilometers and encompasses several other oil and gas fields, including Cawthorn Strait, Akaso, and Alakiri. Originally developed by Shell Oil Development Company, this property was acquired by Eloton Exploration and Production Company in 2014, facing operational disputes and declining production that have left many systems abandoned or poorly maintained.
Government Commits to Sustainable Remediation Efforts
During a meeting with community leader Ingo Herbert at his palace in Amanyanabo, Bir Kingdom, Minister Ekpo reaffirmed the federal government’s dedication to identifying the source of the seepage and restoring the affected environment. He assured residents, “An investigation into the root cause is underway, and the government is fully committed to resolving the issue. We will ensure that the environment is safe and properly remediated.”
Earlier, Governor Nunohara praised the coordinated efforts of the federal government and industry stakeholders and assured residents that their concerns would be addressed promptly. “The federal government is taking all necessary measures to control the gas leak. Your requests for drinking water, medical aid, and fire assistance are being documented and will be attended to,” he stated, also directing the immediate renovation of local health facilities to enhance their capacity to handle health emergencies arising from the gas leak.
Furthermore, Arabo Okpokia Dokubo, Chairman of the Biru Mayors Council, emphasized that residents deserve to fully benefit from the area’s oil and gas resources and urged the government to expedite the promised interventions.
