The residents of Sangana community in Bayelsa State are facing a grave ecological crisis due to the increasing sea level. They have urgently called upon both the state and federal governments, particularly the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), to intervene and address the destructive impact of the surging waters. The rising sea level has already caused significant damage to homes, properties, and the livelihoods of the community.

Sangana is a coastal community rich in oil resources, with several multinational oil companies operating in the area for many years. However, the relentless rise in sea level from the Atlantic Ocean poses a constant threat to the community’s farming and fishing activities, which serve as their primary sources of income.

The multinational oil companies present in the community include Chevron Field, Shell Field, Atala Field, Agbami Field, Conoil Field, Bonga Field, Madu Field, First E&P Field, among others.

In response to the challenges caused by oil exploration activities in the area, the community members recently staged a peaceful protest, urging the state and federal governments to address the associated health issues.

Former Chairman of the Brass Local Government Area, Hon. (Dr) Bello Bina, issued a statement calling for immediate intervention from the state and federal governments to find lasting solutions to the community’s predicament. Bina appealed to organisations such as the NDDC and other intervention agencies to provide assistance to the community.

Expressing concern over the devastating effects of the rising sea level, Bina emphasized the urgency of the situation and the need to alleviate the suffering of the affected population. He urged the state and federal governments, as well as the NDDC, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, IOCs, and other relevant agencies, to take decisive action to combat the surging waters and prevent the community from facing potential extinction in the near future.