Britannia-U Fire: IYC speaks tough, demands remediation 

By Stephen Asaba-ase

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone has called on Britannia-U Nigeria Limited to take immediate responsibility and action following a devastating fire incident at the Ajakpa Field (OML 90) drilling platform in Delta State, Nigeria.

The fire, which occurred on July 18, 2024, has continued to rage on for over 72 hours, causing widespread concern and environmental damage. The IYC Western Zone has condemned the negligence displayed by Britannia-U Nigeria Limited, citing a lack of regular maintenance and repair measures as the cause of the avoidable incident.

The council had demanded that Britannia-U take immediate action to put out the flames and mitigate the effects of the incident, which had already caused significant environmental damage and poses a threat to the livelihoods of communities along the River Forcados.

The IYC Western Zone had also called for the provision of relief materials to affected communities and appropriate compensation according to international practice. Failure to do so, the council warned, would be perceived as a slight disregard for the welfare of residents of affected communities.

The statement was signed by the council’s chairman, Comrade Nicholas Igarama, secretary, Barr. Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo, and information officer, Tare Magbei.

The IYC Western Zone had vowed to hold Britannia-U Nigeria Limited accountable until appropriate remedial measures are effected in full adequacy. The council demands utmost accountability and immediate action from Britannia-U Nigeria Limited to restore the River Forcados to a liveable condition.

This incident emphasised the need for oil companies operating in the Niger Delta region to prioritise the welfare of host communities and the environment. The IYC Western Zone will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that justice is served.