This special edition of the weekly update spotlights human-induced environmental disasters in the Niger Delta with a focus on illegal artisanal oil refining related fire outbreaks in the region. According to data (see map above), illegal artisanal oil refining related violence and disasters caused over 900 fatalities in the Niger Delta between January 2018 and June 2022. Recent data also indicates an upsurge in illegal oil refining related fire outbreaks in the region. In April 2022, for instance, over 100 persons were reportedly killed and several vehicles burned in an explosion at an illegal artisanal oil refinery in Abaezi community in Ohaji/Egbema LGA, Imo State. In May, 10 persons were reportedly killed in a fire outbreak at an illegal oil refinery in Uzuaku community in Ukwa West LGA, Abia State. In August, a tanker that was allegedly used to convey illegal petroleum products reportedly exploded and killed six residents in Eteo community in Eleme LGA, Rivers State. Recently, on August 21, 2022, six persons were reportedly killed in a fire outbreak at an illegal artisanal oil refinery in Owaza community in Ukwa West LGA, Abia State.
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The issue of escalating loss of lives arising from artisanal crude and unlawful oil cracking is a thing of concern. There is correlation between high crime rate and high rate of unemployment and lawlessness.
Govt should focus on direct job creation to stem the escalating statics on negative social reports in the nation.
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