Kpean Community in Khana LGA Demands FG Accountability Over Oil Spill
Leaders of Kpean Community in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State have demanded accountability from the Federal Government over an oil spill they say has caused severe environmental and humanitarian damage.
They said the spill has destroyed farmlands, polluted rivers, and endangered residents, accusing the Federal Government, Shell, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) of negligence.
The scale of the damage became clear on Friday, December 26, 2025, when the Kpean Council of Chiefs and Elders and youth leaders inspected the affected areas. During the tour, Chief Anthony Waadah, Gbenemene of Legbo Kingdom and President of the Ogoni Association of Business Owners in America, described the incident as a “total and unacceptable disaster” and said the government should not discuss oil resumption in Ogoniland without addressing pollution dating back to 1957.
He raised concerns about the health impact on residents, noting that animals were dying, and called for international intervention and independent investigations into Shell and NNPCL.
The Paramount Ruler of Kpean, Lucky Gbene-Ewoh, said the community can no longer fish or farm, adding that NNPCL confirmed equipment failure and corrosion but failed to act for over two months. He said repeated petitions and visits to Abuja produced no response.
Youth leaders rejected claims of third-party interference. Speaking for the youths, President Lemii Petaba accused the Federal Government of blaming victims while excluding them, warning the community would not remain silent as its environment and livelihoods are destroyed.
