FROM RAHILA ABDULLAHI, KADUNA
Network of Civil Society in Environment, NCSE, has alerted the Kaduna State government and relevant agencies of the alarming reports emerging from Kapam community in Chikun Local Government Area of severe environmental and public health crisis that demands immediate attention.
The alert was contained in a statement by the convener/coordinator of the network and also Executive Director, Bridge That Gap Initiative, Gloria Bulus, titled ‘Urgent Call to Action: Addressing Environmental and Health Crisis in Kapam Community.’
The statement said Kaduna Refinery, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, had been releasing toxic chemicals that are not only killing local wildlife, but also devastating crops and making community members, particularly children and women gravely ill.
“The distressing images of dead animals and dying crops seen on social media from the community serve as a heartbreaking testament to the impact of this environmental catastrophe.
“This situation threatens the livelihoods of local farmers, exacerbates food insecurity and undermines the overall health of the community.
“The ripple effects extend beyond Kapam; they pose a significant risk to the broader Kaduna State, potentially endangering the health of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
“This crisis raises serious questions about the commitment of government to protect its citizens and the environment. Allowing such dangerous practices to continue will not only tarnish government’s reputation, but also ridicule its stated goals of sustainable development and public health protection.
“In the light of these urgent concerns, we call on the government of Kaduna State under the leadership Governor Uba Sani to take decisive and comprehensive action in response to the crisis in Kapam community.”
The CSO called for, among others, a thorough investigation into the toxic emissions from Kaduna Refinery. It added that such investigation must identify the specific chemicals involved, assess their impact on the environment and public health, and hold accountable those responsible for violations of environmental regulations.
It also wants a deployment of health professionals to assess and treat residents affected by toxic exposure, ensuring access to the necessary medical care, as well as implement programmes to provide safe food and clean water to the affected residents, mitigating the immediate risk of food insecurity and health hazards.
