Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers, has approved N100 million in immediate relief for residents of Bille Kingdom in Degema Local Government Area, following persistent gas emissions affecting both land and water sources.
The emergency intervention was announced during a working visit to the community on Wednesday and is aimed at providing urgent palliative support, including the supply of potable water and essential medical services to mitigate the impact of the environmental hazard.
Represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Dagogo Wokoma, Governor Fubara expressed deep concern over the prolonged gas emissions, which have reportedly continued since November 2025.
Wokoma assured residents that while the governor could not be physically present due to other official engagements, the state government remains fully committed to resolving the issue.
“The N100 million allocation is a temporary relief measure.
“The government is actively working to identify the root cause of the emissions and implement a lasting solution.
”We urge residents to remain calm and continue supporting government efforts, ” he said.
Fubara’s intervention followed reports of community concern over the impact of gas emissions on fishing, farming, and domestic water usage.
The state government has assured residents that comprehensive measures would be undertaken to monitor and control the hazard while providing continuous support.
Chairman of the Council of Chiefs in Bille Kingdom, Bennet Dokubo, commended the state government for the visit and for responding promptly to the community’s plight.
He also highlighted the urgent need for technical intervention to prevent further environmental and health hazards.
Dokubo described the situation as unprecedented, noting that the community’s rivers and surrounding areas have been emitting unusual bubbles and foul odors, posing significant health risks to residents.
He called on both the state and federal authorities to take swift action to safeguard lives and livelihoods.
Residents and local leaders welcomed the relief package, urging for timely implementation and long-term solutions to prevent future environmental crises.
