Wike directs military and other security agencies to target illegal bunkering and artisanal refining

Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike of Rivers State has directed members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies to take action against those involved in illegal bunkering and artisanal refining in order to help the state reduce pollution.

Governor Wike made the call during a special Juma’at prayer at the State Central Mosque in Port Harcourt on Friday in commemoration of the 2022 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration.

The Governor, who was represented by Aribitonye Mohammed Okiri, Special Assistant on Schools Sports, said the Armed Forces must look into the new dynamics of challenges in the areas of environmental degradation in the State and put an end to the challenges of black soot emission.

The Governor stated that black soot now poses a serious threat to the health of Nigerians and foreigners in the state.

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To that end, he urged the Armed Forces to work with the State government to put an end to the environmental threat posed by illegal bunkering and artisanal refining.

He pledged his administration’s continued support to the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies in the country.

Governor Wike stated that his government has continued to make progress in promoting the welfare of the Legionnaires and security operatives who risk their lives every day to protect the country’s territorial integrity.

Earlier, Iman Malik Yahya Tanko, the Chief Iman of the Rivers State Central Mosque, urged Moslem faithful to live a life of gratitude to Allah.

“We are grateful to Allah for providing us with life. We must be content with our lives and coexist peacefully with our neighbors. Never be overcome by evil; instead, live a life of love, peace, and brotherhood “, he explained.

On Sunday, January 9th, 2021, at 10 a.m., an Inter-Denominational Church Service for Armed Forces Remembrance Day will be held at Our Lady of Holy Rosery (CEWA), Rumuibekwe. On Saturday, January 15th, 2022, there will be a grand-finale celebration at the Isaac Boro Park Cenotaph, complete with parades and wreath-laying activities.