Dr. Ufot Phenson, an environmental activist and President General of the Akwa Ibom Oil Producing Community Development Network, has raised concerns over the meagre allocation of three percent to oil producing communities in the Petroleum Industry Act. In an interview in Uyo, Phenson highlighted the severe environmental pollution faced by these communities on a daily basis, describing the 3% allocation as a mockery in the face of their suffering.

Phenson emphasized the need for a review of the law, advocating for a 10% allocation to adequately address the environmental devastation and hardships faced by the host communities. He pointed out the insensitivity and negligence of oil companies in addressing oil spills and other harmful activities, leading to the degradation of the environment and the livelihoods of the people.

The activist highlighted the regular occurrence of oil spills and gas flaring by companies like Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited and Network Exploration and Production Limited, resulting in water pollution, destruction of property, poor crop yields, economic hardship, and health issues for the host communities. He called for the companies to operate in accordance with existing laws and international best practices to ensure the development and well-being of the communities.

Phenson also criticized the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) for failing to carry out remediation and damage assessment in the state, accusing the agency of colluding with oil companies to further harm the people of Akwa Ibom. He highlighted the lack of enforcement of regulations and the failure to hold oil companies accountable for their actions.

The environmental activist painted a grim picture of the fate of oil producing communities in Akwa Ibom State, describing them as suffering from humiliation, poverty, and health challenges due to the activities of oil companies. He cited examples of communities like Ibeno where water quality has deteriorated, fishing and farming have been disrupted, and economic opportunities have dwindled.

Phenson recounted an incident in Ikot Ebidang community where toxic hydrocarbons were discharged, leading to health issues and economic hardships for the residents. He criticized the lack of response from the company and the government agencies responsible for addressing such incidents.

Despite the challenges faced by the communities, Phenson expressed hope in the Nigerian judicial system to deliver justice in cases filed against oil companies for environmental pollution. He urged for accountability, remediation, and compensation for the affected communities to restore their environment and livelihoods.

In conclusion, Phenson called for unity among the communities to resist the divide and rule tactics employed by oil companies, emphasizing the importance of collective action in seeking justice and protecting the environment for future generations.