Environment Experts under the aegis of Concern For Aquatic (CFA) in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, (FCT ) have raised the alarm over alleged pollution of the River Niger by Unicane Nigeria Limited, a cassava processing plant located at Jamata in Kogi State .
According to the organisation, the cassava plant has been discharging its waste into the river, resulting in a foul and offensive smell that is affecting aquatic life in the river.
The group National Coordinator, Comrade Arome Abimaje said the residents have reported that they have been seeing dead fish floating in the river as a result of the pollution.
The group expressed their dismay and called for an investigation into the matter.
The group therefore demanded to know who approved the citing of the plant at the Rivers’ bank, as well as how the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), was carried out.
The environmental experts, therefore condemned the dumping of Cassava wastes in the Rivers Niger.
It also raised concerns about the health hazards faced by people living downstream who rely on the river as their only source of drinking water.
They disclosed that the river is a source of livelihood for hundreds of people and natural habitat for millions of living things.
The group, therefore, called on the Kogi State government and relevant agencies responsible for environmental protection and regulation to investigate the matter and take appropriate action against Unicane Bio
Africa Animal Media checks revealed that the water flowing at the river- bank where the plant was cited turned to conplete black due to the dumping of waste from the factory .
Many aquatic species in the area are dead while others have relocated to another location that is fairly better for habitation on river .
Stories by Ademu Usman Idakwo, Abuja.
