Illegal Dredging Threatens Homes In Bayelsa

A resident of Obogoro community in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Chief Nnamdi Egbo, has raised alarm over illegal dredging activities taking place close to his home, warning that the situation is putting his building and safety at serious risk.

Egbo, who recently completed his house in the area, said what was meant to be a place of comfort has turned into a source of worry due to ongoing sand excavation behind his residence.

The distressed homeowner said he has made several efforts to alert the Bayelsa State Government through the appropriate ministry, but nothing has been done to stop the activity.

He said, “I have written and pleaded with the state government through the Ministry concerned, but nothing has been done. The dredging is happening right behind my house, and it is weakening the ground. My building is no longer safe.”

According to Egbo, the constant digging has started affecting the foundation of his house, with visible cracks and shifting soil raising fears of a possible collapse.

He warned that if urgent action is not taken, the situation could lead to a disaster.

“This is a disaster waiting to happen. I am sending a save-our-soul message to the Federal Government to urgently step in and stop this illegal activity before it destroys my home,” he warned.

Egbo questioned the legality of the operation, alleging that those behind it have continued despite repeated complaints from residents.

“We don’t know who authorized this dredging, but it is clearly not being done with any regard for safety or environmental standards. Government must protect its citizens, and right now, we feel abandoned,” he said.

Other residents in Obogoro community also expressed their concern on the dangers of unregulated dredging going on in the area.

According to Mr Ossai, the dredging poses serious environmental and safety risks, including erosion and flooding, adding that such activities, if not properly regulated, could affect not just one house but the entire community.

As of the time of filing this report, efforts to get a response from the relevant state authorities were unsuccessful, leaving residents hoping for urgent intervention before the situation worsens.