World Environment Day: OSOPADEC Chairman Raises Alarm Over Impending Extinction of Aiyetoro, Other Coastal Communities
The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Biyi Poroye, has raised concerns over the worsening environmental crisis confronting Aiyetoro and other coastal communities in Ondo State, warning that some settlements face the threat of extinction due to climate change-induced sea incursion and coastal erosion.
Poroye made the remarks on Thursday during the commemoration of the 2026 United Nations World Environment Day held in Aiyetoro, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Speaking at the event, the OSOPADEC chairman described the environmental challenges facing the riverine communities as a humanitarian and ecological emergency requiring urgent local, national and international intervention.
According to him, Aiyetoro and several oil-producing communities in Ilaje and Ese-Odo local government areas have suffered devastating effects of rising sea levels, coastal erosion and flooding, resulting in the destruction of homes, schools, healthcare facilities and businesses.
He noted that the Atlantic Ocean has reportedly swallowed more than 80 per cent of Aiyetoro’s original landmass, displacing thousands of residents and wiping out critical infrastructure.
“Today, we are not merely celebrating World Environment Day. We are confronted with the realities of sea incursion, submergence and the looming extinction of some of our coastal communities,” he said.
Poroye also disclosed that communities such as Awoye, Gbagira and Mese are experiencing even more severe environmental and socio-economic challenges than Aiyetoro.
He explained that between 500 and 700 homes, including historic landmarks such as the community’s iconic church and technical college, have been lost to the advancing ocean, while over 80 per cent of the town’s 45 original streets have been submerged.
The OSOPADEC chairman lamented that the environmental disaster has crippled local commerce, destroyed livelihoods and weakened social structures, forcing many residents to relocate inland.
He further highlighted the impact of saltwater intrusion on freshwater sources, loss of biodiversity, destruction of wetlands and repeated damage to educational and health facilities within the affected communities.
While calling for stronger climate adaptation measures, Poroye urged governments, development partners, international agencies, financial institutions, oil companies and community stakeholders to collaborate in addressing the crisis.
He stressed that the challenge transcends OSOPADEC and the Ondo State Government, describing it as a global issue that requires collective action.
The OSOPADEC chairman commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to the development of coastal communities and environmental sustainability, while also appreciating the Ondo State Ministry of Environment for its partnership in promoting environmental protection across the state.
He called on residents and stakeholders to embrace environmental conservation efforts, including tree planting and shoreline clean-up initiatives, as part of broader efforts to build climate resilience and secure the future of vulnerable coastal communities.
World Environment Day is observed annually on June 5 by the United Nations to promote environmental awareness and action. The 2026 theme is: “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”
