Ogoni Community and Environmental Group Urge Federal Action on Polluted Oil Wells
Residents of Kpean, one of the most severely polluted communities in Ogoniland, alongside the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), have issued a strong appeal to the Federal Government to decommission all oil well-heads in the area. This call aims to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and ensure the security of local inhabitants.
Demands for Comprehensive Environmental Cleanup
The community has also demanded an immediate and thorough cleanup of the environment, adhering to international best practices and Nigerian environmental laws. These demands were formally presented during an environmental monitoring and evidence gathering training session organized by HOMEF in Kpean over the weekend.
Participants in the training included men, women, and youths from the community, as well as representatives from civil society organizations and the media. The event was prompted by a recent oil spill at Well-Head 14, which is operated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Exploration and Production Limited (NEPL).
Lack of Action Despite Government Assurances
Despite a visit by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, on December 22, 2025, where he assured residents of urgent intervention, monitoring by The Guardian revealed that no remedial actions had been taken as of the time of reporting. Residents expressed deep frustration, noting that Kpean has endured the devastating impacts of multiple oil spills recorded between 2000 and 2021 under Shell's operations, with ongoing incidents under NEPL exacerbating the situation.
The spills have caused extensive environmental devastation, destroyed livelihoods, and severely undermined the well-being and future prospects of the people. This persistent pollution has led to widespread health issues and economic hardship in the community.
Empowering Communities Through Training and Advocacy
During the training, participants were equipped with practical methodologies for documenting environmental degradation and human rights violations. This initiative is designed to hold both government institutions and oil companies accountable for their actions and inactions.
A communique issued at the conclusion of the training emphasized the critical importance of systematic evidence-gathering, community-led monitoring, and forming strategic alliances. These alliances include partnerships with the media, civil society organizations, faith-based groups, academic institutions, and human rights lawyers to strengthen advocacy efforts.
Participants also stressed the necessity of prioritizing marginalized groups, such as women, youths, and persons with disabilities, in environmental justice campaigns. This inclusive approach aims to ensure that all voices are heard and that advocacy efforts address the needs of the most vulnerable populations affected by the pollution.
The ongoing situation in Kpean highlights the urgent need for the Federal Government to take decisive action to address the environmental and health crises in Ogoniland. The community and HOMEF continue to advocate for transparency, accountability, and sustainable solutions to protect both people and the planet.
