Reps to probe abandoned coastline project in Bayelsa

The house of representatives has resolved to probe the abandonment of a shoreline protection project in Opokuma-Kolokuma LGA in Bayelsa state. 

The house passed the resolution to investigate the abandonment of the project following the adoption of a motion sponsored by Oboku Oforji, lawmaker representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma federal constituency of Bayelsa state.

Nigeria is facing severe coastal flooding, resulting in the loss of numerous homes and businesses.

While moving the motion, Oforji said the project was awarded by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the Jide Agboola-led Dredging Atlantic Ltd in 2004.

The legislator said the abandonment of the project is causing “perennial” flooding in the area, resulting in the loss of lives and property.

Citing a newspaper report of October 6, 2025, Oforji claimed that the company abandoned a similar project awarded by the NDDC in Aiyetoro community, Ilaje council area of Ondo.

“Almost twenty years after, this project stands abandoned. This has resulted in perennial erosion, affecting a clan comprising of ten communities,” he said.

“In fact, Ayakoroama community has been washed away. Similarly, a substantial part of Orubiri community has suffered the same fate.

“This has led to the loss of lives and property which could have been averted if the contractor and NDDC had lived up to expectations.”

The motion was unanimously adopted when it was put to a voice vote by Ben Kalu, deputy speaker, who presided over plenary.

Consequently, the house asked the committee on NDDC to investigate the abandonment of the project and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.