DESIRE LORDSON
Women and persons with disabilities in Ogoni have been assured of forty percent engagement in contracts awarded in the cleanup of polluted sites in the Area.
This was the position of the Minister of Environment, Chief Balarabe Lawal on his visit to Ogoni land during the commissioning of water projects in Terabor, planting of mangrove at Bomu shore line, Gokana Local Government Area, inspection of the Centre of Excellence in Wiiyakara, Khana Local Government Area and visitation to Ebubu water scheme in Eleme Local Government Area, all in Rivers State.
Chief Balarabe Lawal, During the Ogoni stakeolders meeting after the inspection of the projects, called for concerted effort from the people of Ogoni, in protecting the cleanup project.
Maintaining that women and youths will be duly engaged in the project.
Also, the Hydrocarbon pollution remediation Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibarine Zabbey, said sensitization on the impact of harmful environmental practices, was on top gear in Ogoni.
Some stakeholders at the meeting, including former Rivers State Commissioner for Environment, Professor Roseline Konya, wants the people of Ogoni to employ dialogue in addressing their environmental issues.
Leader of persons with disabilities in Ogoni, Comrade Ngo, Baridapdoo and the President of National Youth Council Ogoni people, NYCOP; Comrade Barinazor Emmanuel, wants due recognition of their community, in the cleanup project.
Earlier, the King of Gokana, Gberemene Festus Baje, urged HYPREP and the Ministry of Environment to ensure that indigenous companies are engaged in the cleanup process, to preserve the Countries resources.
