Group Calls for Investigation into Toxic Emission from Kaduna Refinery
By: Femi Mustapha
A Network of Civil Society in Environment (NCSE) has expressed dismay over the alarming reports emerging from the Kapam community in Chikun LGA, Kaduna, and called on the State government to initiate a rigorous investigation into the toxic emissions from the Kaduna Refinery.
In a statement, signed by the Convener/Coordinator, NCSE, Gloria Kasang Bulus, and made available to the media in Kaduna today, she described it as a situation that highlights a severe environmental and public health crisis that demands immediate attention.
She added that the 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 Network also urged the government to provide immediate support to cushion the impact on the community by deploying health professionals to assess and treat residents affected by toxic exposure, ensuring access to necessary medical care.
Gloria Kasang who is also the Executive Director of Bridge That Gap Initiative, stressed that, “This situation threatens the livelihoods of local farmers, exacerbates food insecurity, and undermines the overall health of the community.”
She opined that 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.
The Coordinator explained that the ripple effects extend beyond Kapam, noting they pose a significant risk to the broader Kaduna State, potentially endangering the health of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
She added that the crisis raises serious questions about the commitment of the Government to protect its citizens and the environment, and allowing such dangerous practices to continue will not only tarnish the government’s reputation but also ridicule its stated goals of sustainable development and public health protection.
“In light of these urgent concerns, we call on the government of Kaduna State under the leadership of His Excellency the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, should take decisive and comprehensive action in response to the crisis in the Kapam community.
“Implement programs to provide safe food and clean water to affected residents, mitigating the immediate risks of food insecurity and health hazards. Introduce financial assistance programs for local farmers and businesses adversely affected by the environmental damage, helping them to recover and sustain their livelihoods.
Strengthen and enforce existing environmental protection laws to prevent future occurrences of similar crises. This includes regular monitoring of industrial emissions and compliance with safety standards.
“Establish transparent communication channels with the Kapam community to ensure their concerns are addressed and they are involved in decision-making processes regarding their health and environment.
“Develop and implement long-term strategies for environmental restoration and public health improvement, ensuring the community’s resilience against future environmental threats. 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.
