Six months after toxic gas emissions, Fubara visits Bille, releases N100m

Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — After six months of sustained and unchecked gas emissions in Bille Kingdom, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has approved a N100 million emergency intervention, following his first official visit to the affected community since the crisis began in October 2025.

Although the company operating the leaking facility remains a mystery, NUPRC Chief Executive, Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, on March 24th 2026 claimed she has launched an investigation into the ongoing incident, exactly five months after the multiple leaks became noticeable since October 25th 2025.

The prolonged pollution, which has impacted both land and waterways, has drawn concern over health risks and environmental damage in the oil-producing area, as pungent gas bubbles from multiple spots around the coastal community.

Represented during the visit by Secretary to the State Government Dagogo Wokoma, the governor said his administration was taking steps to address immediate needs while working toward a permanent solution.

“Governor Fubara remains deeply committed to the welfare of the people of Bille Kingdom, he is fully aware of the situation and determined to tackle the root cause of the environmental challenge,” Wokoma said.

He noted that the N100 million support would provide potable water and essential medical services for residents who have endured months of exposure to the emissions.

However, the government acknowledged that the intervention is only temporary.

“The state government will not relent in its efforts to provide a permanent solution, the current intervention is only a temporary measure to ease the suffering of the people,” he added.

Community leaders described the prolonged gas leakages as both alarming and unprecedented situation.

Chairman of Bille Council of Chiefs, Chief Bennet Dokubo, said the scale of environmental damage was evident during inspections.

“When we took your team into the river, you notice that the entire environment is bubbling and smelling,” he said.

“We most humbly urge you to critically look into this situation. This is something strange we have never experienced before. It is not good for human health,” Dokubo warned.

The governor also inspected affected sites, as residents continue to demand urgent remediation and accountability after enduring over six months of environmental pollution.