Trans-Forcados Spill Expands to 216 Communities as Delta Orders Emergency Response
The impact of the Trans-Forcados pipeline oil spill in Delta State has spread to 216 communities, with fishing livelihoods disrupted and residents facing growing concerns over the health and environmental consequences of the pollution. The development has prompted the state government to order an immediate medical assessment and emergency cleanup of affected areas.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori gave the directives on Tuesday during an inspection of Odidi community in Warri South-West Local Government Area. He ordered the state health authorities to send medical teams to affected communities to assess residents and determine the extent of the pollution’s impact, while Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited was also directed to provide medical support and relief materials.
The governor said the number of affected communities had increased significantly from the previously reported 86, while the contamination had damaged fishing activities, a major source of income for residents. Heritage has indicated that technical work to stop the spill and subsequent cleanup are expected to be completed before the end of October, after which discussions on compensation and further intervention will take place.
Beyond the immediate response, the state government approved the construction of a landing jetty in Odidi and directed the local council to establish a modern health centre in the community. Heritage said it was working with the government, host communities and regulatory authorities on containment and remediation, while the Ijaw Youth Council called for faster action, comprehensive environmental restoration, compensation and increased medical assistance for affected residents.
