The Gujeni community in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, situated along the busy Kaduna-Abuja Expressway, is facing a severe pollution crisis that threatens the health and livelihoods of its residents. This urgent public health and environmental issue has garnered the attention of local authorities, yet immediate action is necessary to address the ongoing challenges.
The Source of Pollution
The primary culprits behind this environmental disaster are emissions from a nearby steel company, along with black soot from a quarry site in Gujeni and an iron smelting factory in neighboring Sabon-Wuse, Niger State. The result has been alarming levels of soot accumulation, which not only tarnishes the community’s aesthetic but also poses significant health risks.
Health Risks and Environmental Degradation
Residents have reported increasing respiratory issues and other health complications, particularly among vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. The continuous emission of pollutants has led to a blackening of the environment, indicating excessive pollution and degradation of local ecosystems.
The local flora and fauna are also suffering, with biodiversity at risk due to the harmful effects of soot and emissions. Moreover, the economic impact on local agriculture and livestock farming threatens the livelihoods of community members who depend on these activities.
Advocacy Efforts and Legislative Response
In response to this crisis, the Network of Civil Society in Environment, led by its coordinator, Gloria Kasang Bulus, reached out to the Kaduna State House of Assembly. Henry Zachariah Marah, representing Jaba Constituency, presented a petition tagged as “Motion of urgent public importance” calling on the House to take immediate action to address the plight of the people of Gujeni.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Speaker of the House constituted a joint committee, which comprises the House Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, led by Danlami Stingo Usman (member representing Kajuru LGA), and the House Committee on Health, led by Barnabas Haruna (member representing Kauru LGA). The committee is tasked with investigating the pollution levels and is expected to report back to the House within one week.
Call for Immediate Action
The proposed actions include:
- Investigation: Initiating an investigation into pollution levels and the compliance of the steel company with environmental regulations.
- Environmental Assessments: Conducting thorough environmental assessments to evaluate the extent of pollution and its impacts on health and the ecosystem.
- Collaboration: Engaging with the Kaduna State Environmental Protection Agency and other stakeholders to develop a comprehensive remediation plan.
- Health Assessments: Conducting health assessments for residents to address pollution-related health concerns.
- Policy Reforms: Advocating for stricter regulations on industrial emissions to prevent future environmental crises.
- Community Engagement: Organising visits to Gujeni for lawmakers, civil society organisations (CSOs), and media to gain firsthand insight into the community’s struggles and to involve residents in the decision-making process.
Conclusion
The plight of the Gujeni community cannot be overlooked. We must ensure the health and the environment of the people are protected. Therefore, urgent intervention is needed to address this critical issue and restore the well-being of the Gujeni community.
Gloria Kasang Bulus is the Executive Director of Bridge That Gap Initiative and Coordinator, Network of Civil Society in Environment