Residents Perceptions on Dredging Activities in Chokocho Community, Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria.

Abstract

The removal of underwater sediments such as sand and silt can stir up and resuspend materials that may contain pollutants accumulated on the seabed. These activities can significantly affect water quality, often leading to pollution through sediment dispersion and contaminant release, thereby affecting people’s livelihoods. The study aimed at examining residents’ perceptions of dredging activities in Chokocho Community, Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State. Using a cross-sectional survey design, the study reports questionnaire responses from 249 retrieved questionnaires, supplemented by interviews and observation. The findings showed that dredging activities have led to the death of fish and have made the water unsuitable for drinking and other recreational activities. It was further affirmed that water pollution resulting from dredging has greatly affected people’s livelihoods, as most respondents reported reduced fish catches, lower daily profits, and longer travel distances to reduce the negative effects of dredging on fishing activities. It was recommended that the government regulate dredging activities by restricting dredgers from operating in fishing communities.