By Karen James
The Managing Director of Seaman Industries, Chief Emeka Agbanari, has responded to allegations of environmental hazards caused by ash emissions from the Seaman Rice Mill in Nnamdi village, Nnobi Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra. Agbanari assured the public that the company is currently in the testing phase and is actively addressing the concerns raised by nearby residents.
The protest, led by local community members, claimed that emissions from the factory were posing a threat to their livelihoods. However, Agbanari clarified that full-scale operations had not yet commenced, and the team of engineers responsible for installing the machinery is working to rectify any errors observed during the testing phase.
Agbanari refuted the accusation that the factory was constructed behind high walls to conceal its activities. He emphasized that the factory, standing at approximately 15 meters high on around 15 plots of land, could not be easily hidden from view. He also dismissed claims that residents had abandoned their homes and livestock due to the alleged pollution, describing these assertions as baseless and aimed at tarnishing the company’s reputation.
Addressing the issue of ash emission, Agbanari acknowledged its presence but assured the public that it is not harmful or toxic. The engineering team is actively working to eliminate the release of ash, which has been the subject of complaints. He expressed surprise that some individuals chose to go to the press without acknowledging the company’s efforts to rectify the issue. He further emphasized that, as a member of the community, he understands the concerns raised and is committed to resolving them.
The Anambra Ministry of Environment has pledged to investigate the complaints to determine the level of threat posed by the emissions to both the residents and the environment. This investigation will provide insight into the situation and guide the appropriate actions to address any potential risks.
As the issue continues to be addressed, it is hoped that open communication and cooperation between Seaman Industries, local residents, and the relevant authorities will lead to a satisfactory resolution that safeguards both the community’s well-being and the environment.
