Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has approved the release of ₦100 million as immediate palliative support for residents of Bille Kingdom in Degema Local Government Area, following ongoing gas emissions affecting the community.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The fund, announced during a working visit to the area on Wednesday, is intended to provide urgent relief through the supply of potable water and essential medical services to mitigate the impact of the environmental challenge.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dagogo Wokoma, Governor Fubara reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to addressing the situation, which has reportedly persisted since November 2025.
The emission has reportedly affected both land and water sources. Wokoma stated that, although the governor could not be physically present due to other official engagements, he remains fully informed and deeply concerned about the health and well-being of the people.
He emphasised that the ₦100 million intervention is a temporary measure, noting that the state government is working towards identifying and resolving the root cause of the gas emissions. He also urged residents to remain peaceful and continue supporting government efforts, assuring them of a lasting solution.
Earlier, Chairman of the Council of Chiefs in Bille Kingdom, Bennet Dokubo, commended the state government for the visit, describing Governor Fubara as responsive.
However, Dokubo called for urgent action to address the environmental hazard, warning that the situation poses serious health risks. He explained that the community’s rivers and surroundings have been emitting unusual bubbles and foul smells, a development he described as unprecedented and dangerous to human health.