They have reported that the incident has resulted in contaminated water supplies, forcing them to depend on sachet water for their daily consumption.
Community leaders are increasingly concerned about the potential for a cholera outbreak if the current conditions continue.
The Obololi River and adjacent creeks were tainted after crude oil leaked from an underwater pipeline.
The National Oil Spills Detection and Response Agency traced the source of the leak to the Nun River-Kolo Creek pipeline, which is managed by Shell Petroleum Development Company.
On Tuesday, Goodnews Okoi, the Chairman of the Obololi Community Development Committee, stated that the spill has led to significant water shortages and heightened the risk of cholera.
NEWS9 Healthwise has reported that Nigeria faced multiple cholera outbreaks in 2024.
According to the World Health Organization, Nigeria documented 786 new cholera cases in January.
The primary contributors to the cholera spread in Nigeria are inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean water.
Furthermore, Michael Adande, a spokesperson for SPDC, previously indicated that the company had halted oil flows into the leaking pipeline and would provide updates regarding relief efforts.
Nevertheless, Okoi expressed that residents have been compelled to purchase sachet water at exorbitant prices, as the contaminated river remains their sole water source.
“We feel neglected. This oil spill has wreaked havoc on our community. Our fishing activities have ceased, and our agricultural lands and creeks have suffered.
“The price of water has surged, now costing N50 per sachet and N800 per bag. This is intolerable, especially in light of the current economic challenges.
“Regrettably, SPDC has demonstrated little concern for the hardships inflicted by the spill. They inform us that action will only be taken once the Joint Investigative Visit establishes the cause as equipment failure.”
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