HEALTH CRISIS LOOMS IN ENUGU STATE AS INDUSTRIES DUMP TOXIC WASTE IN AJALI RIVER

Environmentalists have raised alarm over imminent health crisis in Enugu State as a result of the infiltration of industrial wastes of multinational companies at Ninth Mile Corner to Ajali River, in the State.
The environmentalists made this known when they accompanied the members of the State Assembly Committee on Petroleum Resources and Environmental Matters who visited the affected area as part of their oversight function.
Already, some concerned residents of the affected areas have petitioned the Enugu State House Assembly over environmental degradation and possible outbreak of health crisis as a result of liquid toxic waste in Ajali River that originates from some companies.
Ajali River is a major water source for the State Water Corporation. It was observed, that the waste from companies flow directly to the river, bypassing the pool constructed for it.
An environmentalist, Mr. Uchenna Ani stated that health crisis loomed as a result of the contamination. Mr. Ani lamented that the problem had been there for some time now, accusing the companies of violating environmental safety standard regulation.
The Project Manager Nigeria Erosion and Water Slud Management Project Enugu State, Mr. Festus Ajibo also accused Nigeria Bottling Company of being responsible for some erosion challenges in the area, while the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of the State on Environment Mr. Oscar Okwume condemned the ugly situation.
The Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources and Environment, Mr. Obinna Okenwa assured the people that legislative framework would be used to resolve the matter.
Reacting, the Public Affairs Manager NBL Mr. Isaac Nwabuzo said the environmental Manager, NBC Mr. Olusesan Saliu explained that efforts were on to address the issue, which they claimed was destroyed by erosion. All parties agreed to work together to avert possible epidemic in the state.
OLIVER OSSAI