Chairman of Emouha Local Government Area of Rivers State, Chidi Lloyd has asked Governor Nyesom Wike to declare a state of emergency in Ibaa community over the rate of illegal crude oil refining activities popularly known as “Kpofire” in the area.
Lloyd, who made the call on Thursday, accused security personnel and traditional rulers in the area of supporting the illegal business.
He alleged that every house in Ibaa community including Rumuekpe, and Elele-Alimini communities have a dumpsite for illegal crude, noting that there are over 176 illegal oil sites in the area.
He said that scores of persons were burnt beyond recognition on Tuesday in one of the villages in Ibaa community, as a result of the illegal act.
He maintained that there is strong resistance in the fight against illegal oil refining in Ibaa and Obelle communities as most of the chiefs are involved.
Lloyd explained that the quality of air in these areas is polluted, noting that it appears he is the only one against the act as many people are in one way or another involved in the crime.
