As Bayelsan Activist Challenges Senator Dickson Over Environmental Mandate, Demands Action on Climate and Public Health
By Passman Akpos
A Bayelsa-based public affairs commentator, Tamaratare Oweilador Amboro, has openly challenged Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, questioning what tangible impact the former governor has made with the strategic position entrusted to him by the National Assembly.
In an open letter dated June 4, 2026, Amboro expressed concerns over what he described as the continued environmental neglect of Bayelsa State and the wider Niger Delta region despite Senator Dickson’s leadership of a committee specifically responsible for ecological and climate-related matters.
According to the letter, Bayelsa remains one of the regions most affected by decades of crude oil exploration, gas flaring, environmental pollution and related public health challenges. The writer referenced reports suggesting that hydrocarbons had been detected in the bloodstreams of some Bayelsa residents, warning that many more citizens may be unknowingly exposed to dangerous pollutants.
Amboro also raised concerns about the operation of newly built gas turbine facilities within the state, arguing that environmental and public health considerations appear to have been overlooked in the pursuit of development projects.
“Where is the service to the people?” the activist asked, insisting that Senator Dickson’s current position presents a unique opportunity to champion environmental justice for communities suffering from the long-term consequences of oil and gas exploitation
Drawing parallels with the struggles championed by the late Niger Delta hero, Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, Amboro argued that the region’s leaders must move beyond political rhetoric and pursue practical solutions capable of improving the lives of ordinary people.
The letter questioned whether sufficient attention had been given to carbon capture technologies, cleaner energy alternatives and strategies aimed at reducing harmful emissions across the region.
Amboro further noted that billions of dollars are being invested globally by governments, international organizations and private investors to accelerate renewable energy development and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. He argued that Bayelsa should position itself to benefit from this transition by establishing solar energy hubs, clean-energy research centres and innovation facilities capable of creating employment opportunities for young people.
The writer also appeared to criticize recent constituency projects associated with the senator, suggesting that environmental sustainability initiatives should take precedence over infrastructure projects that do not directly address climate and ecological concerns.
He called on Senator Dickson to use his position as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ecology and Climate Change to sponsor and champion legislation aimed at reducing carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy adoption and addressing the environmental challenges facing the Niger Delta.
” We are never going to liberate our people and accelerate our economic, cultural and political development through political rhetoric alone,” Amboro wrote, adding that eloquence should not be mistaken for effective leadership.
The letter concludes by urging the senator to match his reputation as a skilled communicator with concrete policy actions capable of delivering environmental justice, cleaner air and sustainable economic opportunities for future generations.
As of the time of filing this report, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson had not publicly responded to the concerns raised in the open letter.
