As part of committed efforts to ensure strict environmental compliance monitoring and the dire need to avoid a repeat of the ugly experiences of the 1988 koko toxic waste debacle, the Delta State commissioner for Environment, Barr. John Obukohwo Nani has led officials of the State Government including the Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area and the Nigeria Custom to the allege toxic waste Dumpsite manage by Ebenco Global Links Ltd, an integrated waste management facility in koko town, Warri North local Government Area of the State.
The visit is coming on the hinge of allege importation of substance suspected to be toxic waste to dump or manage in the ancient town by Ebenco Global Links Ltd, a waste management facility in koko town. The suspected toxic content of the substance has cause apprehension on the mind of residence and other stakeholders especially with the unpleasant experience of 1988 where toxic waste from Italy was dump in Koko community port which negatively impact the environment and caused degradation which required remediation. The experience is still a reference source in environmental studies and research.
Speaking during the visit, Hon. Nani stressed that "Our visit is coming on the hinge of alleged importation of industrial toxic waste to the ancient town to be manage by the company. This has caused apprehension on the mind of all stakeholders and thus, there was urgent need to effectively manage the situation for the benefit of Deltans. I am pleased that the Nigeria Custom personally led by the comptroller of the Edo/Delta zone, Barr. Ona Eboma is here with us for the on-the-spot assessments of the waste Dumpsite and the facility".
Speaking further, Hon. Nani stated that samples of the substance has been collected for further laboratory analysis and the outcome of the analysis will be made public for the interest of all.
He urge the people of Koko and it's environ to remain calm saying genuine efforts would be made to pay adequate attention to their health concerns and other issues agitating their mind.
Also Speaking, The Comptroller of Custom, Edo/Delta, Barr. Oni Eboma said that the substance was not imported. He therefore allay the fear of the people that it is a repeat of the 1988 experience but stressed that it is only a competent laboratory analysis that will determine the toxicity of the susbance.
Earlier on arrival, the Delta State government team was conducted round the facility by the company's head of operation, Dr. Akintunde Francis.
Dr. Akintunde explained that contrary to media reports, the waste is the by-product of oil companies, adding that the company has been involved in the business of waste management for long with proven integrity. He said that they manage waste for NNPC and other oil prospecting companies in Nigeria. He maintained that the waste is not harmful as being portray my a section of the media.
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