SUNTV Global Channel
July 12, 2026
Residents of Uzere Community in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State have raised alarm over an oil well blowout that has continued unchecked for three weeks, forcing families to abandon their homes and farmlands amid growing fears of a major environmental and humanitarian disaster.
The incident occurred at Location-14, an oil wellhead situated in Uhei Quarter, Uzere, just a short distance from residential buildings. The facility was previously operated by Shell and is now managed by Heritage Energy.
Community members say crude oil and gas have been escaping continuously into the environment, exposing residents to serious health, safety and environmental risks while contaminating nearby land.
The uncontrolled discharge has reportedly forced several households living close to the facility to relocate, while farmers have abandoned their farmlands over fears of possible explosions, pollution and worsening environmental damage.
Residents noted that this is not the first incident at the location, recalling that a similar blowout occurred about a decade ago before repairs were carried out. However, they described the current situation as more severe and potentially more dangerous.
Environmental concerns have intensified as the rainy season progresses, with fears that floodwaters could spread contaminated materials into neighbouring communities, causing widespread ecological damage, destruction of livelihoods and long-term pollution of land and water sources.
Community leaders warned that every day the blowout remains uncontrolled increases the risks to human life, biodiversity and the local economy, particularly for farming families whose livelihoods depend on the affected land.
They have called on the Federal Government, relevant regulatory agencies, emergency response authorities and Heritage Energy to urgently contain the leak, safeguard residents and prevent further environmental degradation.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over ageing oil infrastructure and recurring environmental pollution across the Niger Delta, where host communities have repeatedly demanded stronger safety measures and greater accountability from operators in the oil and gas industry.
