Leaders, stakeholders, and indigenes of Etche nation in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State, have expressed deep concern over the growing environmental challenges caused by oil exploration and unregulated sand dredging, calling for urgent and coordinated action to safeguard the future of their communities.
This formed the crux of discussions at the 2026 Easter Convention of Ogbakor Etche Worldwide, held recently in Umuechem, where the President-General, Barrister Silas Anyanwu, alongside other prominent figures, addressed pressing issues affecting the socio-economic wellbeing of the Etche people.
Welcoming participants to the gathering, Barr. Anyanwu described the convention as a convergence of custodians of a rich cultural heritage united by a shared vision of progress and collective responsibility. He emphasized the importance of unity and sustained dialogue in redefining Etche’s place within Nigeria’s socio-political and economic landscape.
The convention, which attracted a large turnout including over 15 professors of Etche extraction, traditional rulers, elders, and professionals, was themed around the critical issues of oil exploration and sand dredging in Etche land. Participants described the theme as both timely and necessary, given the increasing environmental threats confronting the region.
In his remarks, Barr. Anyanwu lamented the devastating impact of these activities on the environment and livelihoods of the people. He noted that unchecked oil exploration and dredging have led to severe environmental degradation, including flooding, destruction of farmlands, and depletion of forest reserves. According to him, these challenges pose a direct threat to agriculture, which remains the backbone of the local economy.
He further decried the alarming rate at which riverbanks and arable lands are being eroded due to unregulated dredging, warning that the delicate ecosystem sustaining rural communities is under serious threat. He stressed that while economic activities are necessary, they must be conducted within the confines of environmental laws and regulations.
Also speaking at the event, guest lecturer, Prof Hycienth Nwankwoala raised concerns about the long-term implications of environmental neglect. He warned that if urgent steps are not taken, parts of Etche land could face severe ecological consequences in the near future. He highlighted noticeable environmental changes over the years, including the gradual disappearance of vital vegetation and increasing land degradation.
The professor underscored the concept of sustainable development, urging communities and stakeholders to adopt practices that preserve resources for future generations. He noted that indiscriminate dredging of waterways and streams is a dangerous trend that could have irreversible consequences if not addressed promptly.
Chairman of the occasion, Engr Fortune Obi, also lent his voice to the discussions, emphasising the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement of regulations governing dredging and oil-related activities. He pointed out that some operators exploit regulatory loopholes, often transferring licences to unauthorised individuals, thereby complicating accountability and oversight.
Participants at the convention also stressed the importance of community involvement and inclusivity in tackling the challenges. They noted that the impact of environmental degradation extends beyond host communities, affecting the broader population and critical infrastructure within and beyond Etche land.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation by the Umuechem 1990 Massacre Book Committee, which unveiled a publication documenting previously untold stories of the historic incident. The initiative, according to organizers, is aimed at preserving history, promoting awareness, and fostering a deeper understanding of the community’s past.
Speaking on the significance of the book, contributors noted that it is not too late to document and share these experiences, describing the effort as a step toward truth-telling, healing, and collective memory.
On his part, the Royal Father of the day, His Eminence, Ochie Emmanuel Opurum, Onye-Isi Etche harped on the importance of road infrastructure, security, agriculture, health facilities and harmonised chieftaincy issues in Etche nation, and urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to fulfill his promise of extending the ongoing Egwi-Afara road project construction to Ndashi Community.
The convention concluded with renewed calls for government intervention, stricter enforcement of environmental laws, and greater accountability from oil companies and dredging operators. Leaders emphasised that while development is essential, it must not come at the expense of the environment and the survival of future generations.
Overall, attendees described the gathering as impactful and timely, noting that it provided a vital platform for the people to voice their concerns, share experiences, and chart a path forward for sustainable development in Etche nation.
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