The Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) has officially cleared Renecon Limited of any responsibility for the fish deaths reported in March 2024 at the Epe Cottage Fishing Farm in Lagos State.
Despite being exonerated, Renecon Limited has donated N5 million to support sustainable fishing initiatives in Epe and enhance the local fishing ecosystem as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
The fish deaths incident at Epe had initially sparked controversy, with fish farmers and public opinion blaming Renecon’s dredging activities for the unexplained losses. However, following Renecon’s demand for a comprehensive investigation, the Lagos State Government confirmed that the company’s dredging operations were not responsible.
During a peace meeting held yesterday in Ikeja, MIREMCO Chairman Sesan Olanrewaju presented the “Report on Conclusion of Investigation and Settlement for the Fish Kill at the State Government Caged Fishing Cluster at Epe.”
The investigative report, conducted by the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), revealed that water contamination from faecal matter and an overgrowth of water hyacinth were the primary causes of the fish deaths. Laboratory tests confirmed that these factors had suffocated the fish by cutting off their oxygen supply. The report also noted that poor marine hygiene at the fishing cluster had contributed to infections among the fish. Rising temperatures, which caused the lagoon to heat up, further exacerbated the poor water conditions.
Also, the report stated that Renecon’s dredging operations were over 2km away from the affected shoreline, ruling out any connection to the fish deaths.
Olanrewaju emphasised the need for improved waste management and better maintenance of the marine environment at the fishing cluster. He praised the cooperation of all stakeholders and reaffirmed MIREMCO’s commitment to conflict resolution and sustainable development within Lagos State’s marine economy.
Ademola Owolabi, counsel for Renecon Limited, expressed relief that the thorough investigation had vindicated the company. He urged caution in handling public accusations and called for a more informed approach to resolving disputes. Owolabi also highlighted Renecon’s proactive donation of N5 million, describing it as a goodwill gesture rather than an admission of liability.
“As a responsible corporate citizen, we believe Lagos will thrive when everyone contributes their quota to its development. Renecon remains committed to environmentally sustainable dredging practices,” Owolabi said. He further called for a collaborative approach to addressing challenges in the fishing and dredging industries.
The General Secretary of the Dredgers Association of Nigeria (DAN), Richard Ntan, underscored the essential role of dredging in Lagos State’s development. He acknowledged the tensions between stakeholders but urged mutual understanding, highlighting the benefits of dredging for fish farming.
“Dredging is a blessing, even to fish farmers. When we dredge, we deepen the waters, creating better conditions for fish farming while also preventing floods. Instead of conflicts, we should be applauded for our contributions,” Ntan remarked.
Representing fish farmers, the President of Farmers in Epe Local Government Area, Shabi Aminat Shade, expressed gratitude for the intervention efforts. However, she urged authorities to be more attuned to the challenges facing the farming community.
Shade pointed out that many fish farmers had suffered significant financial losses, with some forced to abandon the business entirely. She reassured government officials and dredging stakeholders of the farmers’ commitment to peaceful resolutions and ongoing dialogue.
The meeting concluded with a call for all parties to prioritise sustainable practices and foster collaboration to ensure the development of Lagos State’s marine economy.
