RSG Bans Sand Dredging In 3 LGAS

Dredging Activities In Parts Of Rivers State Banned

The Rivers State Government has banned all dredging activities in Port Harcourt, Obio/Akpo and part of Eleme Local Government Areas.

Environment Commissioner, Mr. Kingsley Chinda gave the order in Port Harcourt on Thursday at an interactive meeting with dredging companies in the state.

Mr. Chinda told the dredgers that the ban on the central places was not made in bad faith, but to safeguard the environment, considering the impact of their activities in the communities.

He acknowledged the role of dredgers on the economic development of the state, especially in the areas of employment and business investment, adding that in taking the decision, government took exception to the monetary gains that would accrue to government.

The Commissioner who educated the participants on the importance of EIA in carrying out their business, enjoined them to always tell their host communities the truth to ensure effective monitoring of their activities, stressing that the companies must comply with the decisions reached at the interactive forum.

Speaking while answering questions from the dredgers, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Rufus Godwins, said the interest of the Ministry on the activities of the dredgers was anchored on safety of the environment.

He called for the co-operation of the organizations to come up with an acceptable policy that would enhance their operations in the state.

On his part, Navy Captain Michael Odebode who is the Commanding Officer of the Hydrographic School, Borikiri Port Harcourt and had been working in partnership with the Ministry on the dredging menance, deplored the attitude of the dredgers for what he called “in sincere approach in their dealings with the Ministry.