The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has pledged its commitment to putting an end to bunkering activities and other forms of economic sabotage in the Niger Delta region. The President of NYCN, Sukubo Sukubo, made this pledge during a sensitization campaign in Akuku-Toru LGA, Rivers State.
The campaign, which took place across nine communities in the “Kula Kingdom,” aimed to promote zero tolerance for bunkering, chemical fishing, and other economic sabotage in the area. The communities covered by the campaign include Kula, Belema, Oluama, Agudama, Robert-Kiri (also known as Bush Bar), Kalamasiri, Offogboko, and Uwangaye.
Sukubo expressed concerns about the impact of bunkering activities on aquatic life and the environment of the nine communities in Akuku-Toru LGA. He emphasized the need for sensitization due to the associated risks and the negative impact on the nation’s economy.
The President of NYCN highlighted the richness of the Kula Kingdom in terms of oil minerals and untapped tourism potential. He noted that several flow stations, including the Robert Kiri Flow Station (OML 55), Idama Flow Station (OML 55), and Belema Flow Station (OML 25), are located in the area.
Sukubo reaffirmed the group’s determination to achieve its goal of ending bunkering activities. He referenced a recent boat accident that claimed the lives of three individuals engaged in illegal bunkering activities in OML 25 in Kula.
The NYCN President urged community members to refrain from engaging in illegal activities that could endanger their lives, pollute the environment, and disrupt their livelihoods. The group has committed to partnering with relevant security agencies to prevent further economic sabotage in the area.
Sukubo assured the communities that the NYCN would advocate for the provision of basic infrastructure and human capital development by the state and federal governments.
Emine Ariyitamunoprim, the President of Kula Youths, echoed the concerns about the negative impact of bunkering activities on community members. He attributed pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, and other vices in the area to poverty and the lack of basic infrastructure. Ariyitamunoprim called on the government at various levels to prioritize the provision of basic amenities and human capital development in the affected communities.
