The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) says it has ordered an immediate probe of the incident on Amadi Creek which has resulted in the death of one fisherman.
A statement tagged, “Incident at Amadi-Ama and Koko-Ama Communities’ Water Channel”, on Sunday, January 21, 2024 by NLNG’s General Manager, External Relations and Sustainable Development, Andy Odeh, disclosed that the company was aware of the incident.
He said: “Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) is aware of protests stemming from a grievance concerning a capsized canoe in the Amadi-Ama and Koko-Ama communities’ water channel.”
“The incident is linked to an alleged strong wave generated by a transiting passenger boat chartered by NLNG.”
“Reports indicate that the incident has resulted in one fatality and the subsequent blockade of the Amadi-Ama and Koko-Ama channel used by the passenger boat.”
He informed that urgent steps were already being taken to douse the tension already generated by the incident, further disclosing that the company is currently engaging with the operator of the boat, as well as Amadi-Ama and Koko-Ama Communities.
“NLNG has urgently initiated investigations into the matter. Furthermore, NLNG is actively engaging with the passenger boat operator and the protesting communities, Amadi-Ama and Koko-Ama, with the aim of reaching a peaceful resolution.”
“The engagement has led to the removal of the blockade.”
“NLNG urges for calm during the ongoing investigation and resolution process. The company is committed to addressing the concerns raised and working towards a peaceful outcome for all parties involved, ” he said.
Precious Imabibo, a native of Koko-Ama Community was said to have drowned when one of the NLNG chartered boats allegedly sailed past his fishing canoe on Saturday, January 20, 2024 along the Amadi Creek adjacent the Community, tipping it with its strong waves.
His fishing colleague, identified only as Faith, survived the incident and currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility.
