Abereke: CAPPA Urges Action Over Oil Spill, Ocean Surge in Ondo Community

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Oil-coated water in Abereke


Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on the Federal Government and Ondo State authorities to urgently intervene in what it described as a worsening environmental and humanitarian crisis in Abereke community, Ilaje Local Government Area.

In a statement issued after a field visit, the organisation said recurring oil spills and ocean surges have devastated livelihoods and submerged large parts of the community.

CAPPA Associate Director, Martins Ogunlade, described the situation as “devastating and fast deteriorating,” blaming it on a combination of corporate negligence and government inaction.


CAPPA's Associate Director, Climate and Environment, points at a oil-polluted fish pond in Abereke.


The group alleged that a recent oil spill, linked to Guarantee Petroleum Company, has continued to impact the community months after it occurred.

According to CAPPA, the spill has contaminated water bodies, destroyed aquatic life, and damaged fishing equipment, which serves as the primary source of livelihood for residents.

It added that the situation has been compounded by coastal erosion and tidal surges, which have submerged land and left the community exposed to further environmental damage.


Dead vegetation and marine life following an oil spill.

The organisation also raised concerns over the destruction of key infrastructure, including a primary school, and the lack of access to healthcare services in the area.

CAPPA said residents have made several appeals to authorities and oil companies operating in the region without meaningful response.

It called for urgent measures, including an environmental impact assessment, clean-up of polluted sites, construction of coastal protection infrastructure, and compensation for affected residents.

The group also urged the rebuilding of critical infrastructure and restoration of livelihoods.


Abereke's only school collapses following years of neglect.

CAPPA further noted that oil spillage remains a persistent problem in the Ilaje axis, accusing oil firms such as Shell, Chevron, and Agip of contributing to environmental degradation in the region.

It called on the government to act swiftly to protect affected communities and hold polluters accountable.

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