Before we allow the dredging work to commence on the Beniikrukru and Abiteye projects respectively, we must see not just a mere report but a very comprehensive detailed report of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
The above demand was handed down to Chevron Nigeria Limited, CNL, recently by the Benikrukru Federated Environmental and Ecological Watch Organization on behalf of the communities in a letter sent to Epanel Nigeria Limited and CNL corporate headquarters and copy made available to GbaramatuVoice.
Speaking through the letter signed by Mr. Wuruyai Hebrew and Mr. Freeborn Tonfawei, the group president and secretary respectively. The group stated that as a responsible Organisation, we wish to unequivocally express our dismay over the ongoing dredging work being carried out by Epanel Nigeria Limited.
Epanel, the group added, is a major contractor to Chevron Nigeria Limited and key player in the industry ought to know better that it is not possible to execute projects of such magnitude without recourse to the provisions of the Environmental Impact Assessment Act.
Wondering why Epanel and CNL choose to go through this inglorious way, the group averred that as a responsible body that has earned the trust of the community, they will continue to make sure that no organization, not even Chevron can undermine the interest as well as the safety of the communities.
Going further, the group, therefore, called for a total stop of the dredging work forthwith until Chevron do the needful by presenting to the community a feasibility test result that meets with both process and outcome fairness.
All factors considered, the group warned that any attempt by CNL or its agent to undermine or act in such a way that is inimical to the lives of the indigenes shall be met with stiff resistance from the group as well as the entire community.
They threatened to, without further hesitation inform the international community and development agencies of this deliberate determination by Chevron and its agent to circumvent the international best practice on project management.
Finally, the body declared that as a responsible group representing a law-abiding community, that they are ready to work in peace and harmony with Chevron and other oil majors only when they adhere to international best practice.
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