Bayelsa coastline residents report dead fishes as expert seeks investigation

Bayelsa Coastline Residents Report Dead Fishes, Expert Seeks Investigation

Residents of the Bayelsa coastline in Nigeria have reported a large number of dead fishes washing up on the shores, sparking concerns about the environmental impact and potential health risks. The incident has prompted a call for investigation by a marine expert.

According to eyewitnesses, the dead fishes, which include species such as catfish, tilapia, and mackerel, have been washing up on the shores of the coastline for several days. The affected areas include the popular tourist destination of Nembe and the fishing communities of Brass and Ogbia.

Dr. Nengi Ilagha, a marine biologist and expert on aquatic life, has expressed concern about the sudden and unexplained death of the fishes. "This is a serious environmental issue that requires immediate investigation," she said. "The sudden death of such a large number of fishes could be a sign of pollution, disease, or other environmental factors that need to be identified and addressed."

Ilagha has called on the relevant authorities, including the Bayelsa State Government and the Nigerian Ministry of Environment, to launch an investigation into the incident. "We need to determine the cause of the fish deaths and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future," she said.

The Bayelsa State Government has promised to investigate the incident and take necessary steps to address the issue. "We are taking the situation seriously and will do everything possible to identify the cause of the fish deaths and prevent further harm to the environment and the people of Bayelsa," said a government spokesperson.

The incident has also raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with consuming contaminated fish. "We urge the public to avoid consuming any fish that have been affected by the incident until further notice," said Ilagha.

The Bayelsa coastline is known for its rich marine biodiversity and is an important source of income for many fishing communities in the region. The incident has sparked fears about the long-term impact on the environment and the livelihoods of those who depend on the sea for their survival.

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