Olu of Warri’s BBC Interview Sparks Global Outcry on Niger Delta Oil Pollution Crisis -Comrade Ezekiel

By Osaro Michael, Benin

A recent interview by the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, on the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has reignited global attention on the long-standing issue of oil pollution in the Niger Delta region. Hon. Daniel Ezekiel, popularly known as Aluta, a House of Representatives aspirant for the Warri Federal Constituency, has commended the monarch’s courageous and timely intervention.

The Olu of Warri’s remarks have highlighted the devastating effects of oil pollution on the environment, health, and livelihoods of communities in Warri and surrounding areas. For decades, oil exploration has ravaged farmlands, polluted rivers, and destroyed livelihoods, plunging communities into poverty and severe environmental degradation.

Aluta noted that the monarch’s intervention has drawn national and international attention to the injustice suffered by the people of the Niger Delta, whose land and waters have been exploited while its inhabitants bear the harsh consequences. The Youth O’Clock Movement, led by Comrade Hon. Ezekiel Daniel Perela, has emerged as a voice for the people, advocating for environmental justice, job creation, and sustainable development.

The Niger Delta region has experienced over 7,000 oil spill incidents since the 1950s, with an average of 240,000 barrels of crude oil spilled annually. This has contaminated water sources, soil, and air, causing respiratory problems and other health issues.

The Olu of Warri has challenged governments and oil companies to take decisive action towards developing the oil-producing communities and addressing the environmental devastation. The Youth O’Clock Movement asserts that the Niger Delta needs action, representation, and accountable leadership, not sympathy.