The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has condemned the blowing up of vessels laden with stolen crude in the waterways, saying such an act is devastating to the environment.

Speaking in a statement yesterday, the National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Israel Uwejeyan called for immediate end of the practice, saying it exacerbates the already dire ecological crisis residents of Niger Delta region are suffering.

He said: “It is affront to the essence of our land and livelihoods that those entrusted with safeguarding our interests would engage in an activity that directly contributes to the degradation of our environment. The crude oil spills resulting from these callous actions are an assault on our water resources, endangering aquatic life and undermining the sustenance of countless communities that depend on these waters for survival.

“While we, the youth of the Niger Delta, have long endured the devastating consequences of oil exploration activities, it is unconscionable that entities such as the Nigerian government, Security agencies, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPCL), and the Tan Tita Security would further compound our woes through these explosions. Such acts betray an utter lack of concern for the future of our region and the generations to come.

“We must remind those responsible that our region has borne the brunt of environmental degradation for decades, as oil spills and pollution have wreaked havoc on our ecosystem and socio-economic fabric. To then witness deliberate acts that add to this destruction is an insult to our resilience and an assault on our dignity as a people.”

The group therefore calls on the government to uphold its duty to protect the environment and secure the future of the people by enacting stringent measures against the destructive actions.

“We insist that the NNPCL, as a key stakeholder, demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of our region by distancing itself from such ecologically disastrous endeavors.

“Furthermore, we demand that the Tan Tita Security reassess its role and its impact on our communities. The guardians of our safety must not become accomplices in the desecration of our environment.

“In closing, let it be known that the Niger Delta youth will not stand idly by as our waters, our lands, and our lives are subjected to further harm. We will hold those responsible accountable for their actions, and we will champion the cause of our environment with an unwavering determination that reflects our love for this land.”