Civil Society Organisations and environmental activists have called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in Bille Community, Rivers State, over a persistent gas leak.
They made the demand during a field visit to the affected areas in Degema Local Government Area.
The visit was organised by Social Action in collaboration with several environmental and civil rights groups.
Other participating groups included Kebetkache Women Development Centre, Chikoko Movement and Health of Mother Earth Foundation.
Residents said gas bubbles first appeared in water bodies and wells last year.
They added that the situation has worsened, with fumes and ground cracks now widespread.
Activists displayed placards describing the leak as a major environmental and health threat.
Social Action Executive Director, Isaac Osuoka, accused government agencies of neglect.
He said the community has suffered prolonged exposure to what he described as hydrocarbon contamination.
Osuoka claimed that groundwater and aquatic life in the area have been severely damaged.
He faulted federal regulators for what he described as delayed response to the crisis.
He also criticised environmental assessments conducted by relevant agencies, alleging they underreported risks.
The activist blamed federal institutions for failing to protect Niger Delta communities.
He said the situation represents a serious public health emergency requiring urgent intervention.
Ijaw Youth Council leader, Datolu Sukubo, also accused authorities of inaction since last year.
He warned that continued neglect could lead to escalated confrontation in the region.
Environmental activist, Annkio Briggs, described the situation as alarming and unacceptable.
She called for urgent federal attention to prevent further environmental damage.
The King of Bille Kingdom, represented by community leaders, said pollution levels had exceeded safe limits.
He urged the Federal Government to take immediate steps to address the crisis.
Traditional authorities also proposed developing gas utilisation projects to create jobs and reduce risks.
Stakeholders insisted that only a coordinated emergency response can protect lives and restore livelihoods in the community.
