The Network of Civil Society in Environment (NCSE) has alerted the Kaduna State Government and other relevant agencies to the alarming reports emerging from the Kapam community in Chikun LGA, highlighting a severe environmental and public health crisis that demands immediate attention.
The alert is contained in a statement by the Convener/Coordinator of the Network and also the Executive Director, Bridge That Gap Initiative, Gloria Kasang Bulus, entitled “Urgent Call to Action: Addressing Environmental and Health Crisis in Kapam Community”.
The statement said the Kaduna Refinery, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has been releasing toxic chemicals that are killing local wildlife, devastating crops, and making community members, particularly children and women, gravely ill.
“The distressing images of dead animals and dying crops seen on social media from the community serve as a heartbreaking testament to the impact of this environmental catastrophe. This situation threatens the livelihoods of local farmers, exacerbates food insecurity, and undermines the overall health of the community. The ripple effects extend beyond Kapam, posing a significant risk to the broader Kaduna State, potentially endangering the health of surrounding communities and ecosystems.”
The crisis raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and the environment. Allowing such dangerous practices to continue will tarnish the government’s reputation and ridicule its stated goals of sustainable development and public health protection.
In light of these urgent concerns, the NCSE calls on the government of Kaduna State, under the leadership of His Excellency the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Sen. Uba Sani, to take decisive and comprehensive action in response to the crisis in the Kapam community.
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This includes:Â Open Up a Thorough Investigation: The government should initiate a rigorous investigation into the toxic emissions from the Kaduna Refinery. This investigation must identify the specific chemicals involved, assess their impact on the environment and public health, and hold accountable those responsible for any violations of environmental regulations.
“The residents of Kapam and all citizens of Kaduna State deserve a safe and healthy environment. We urge all stakeholders to unite in addressing this crisis, prioritizing the well-being of the community over corporate interests. Immediate action is essential to remedy this situation and prevent further harm to both the people and the environment,” the statement reads.
