Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has taken decisive action in response to an escalating oil spill crisis affecting local communities. Following an alarming increase in the number of impacted areas from 86 to 216, the governor has mandated immediate medical intervention to address the health implications of the pollution.

During a recent inspection of Odidi community in Warri South-West Local Government Area, Oborevwori instructed the Commissioner for Health to deploy medical teams to assess the situation and provide necessary care to residents. The governor emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, "We have to take this matter seriously. Once you see what is happening, you realise that it is a very big issue. We don’t want our people dying at this time."

The governor also called on Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited, the company responsible for the pipeline, to contribute to the medical response by sending its own teams and supplying relief materials to affected communities. He highlighted that the intervention would extend beyond mere distribution of aid, as it is crucial for residents to undergo medical examinations due to the potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure to contaminated environments.

Oborevwori noted the significant environmental impact of the spill, particularly on local fishing activities, which serve as a primary source of livelihood for many in the affected areas. The governor expressed concern over the rising scarcity and costs of fish, further stressing that the crisis encompasses more than just financial compensation; it is fundamentally about restoring the environment and protecting human lives.

To further support the Odidi community, the governor has approved the construction of a landing jetty and directed the local government chairman to establish a modern health center. He has also tasked the Commissioners for Oil and Gas and Environment with overseeing the implementation of these directives and ensuring compliance from the oil company.

Heritage Energy has pledged to collaborate with the state government and local communities to resolve the crisis. Nelson Wilbert, the General Manager of Operations Integrity at Heritage, stated that their immediate focus is on halting the spill and conducting necessary technical operations to restore normalcy.

In a call to action, Dr. Doubra Okotete, President of the Ijaw Youth Council, urged for urgent measures to stop the pollution, claiming that crude oil continues to leak from the pipelines. He has called for comprehensive remediation efforts and increased medical support for residents suffering from health issues related to the spill.

Governor Oborevwori reassured the affected communities that his administration is committed to engaging relevant stakeholders to address their concerns and ensure that the commitments made by the oil company are fulfilled. He urged residents to remain peaceful and patient as the government navigates the complexities of the situation through dialogue and due process.