The Forçados River (originally Forcados) is a channel in the Niger Delta, in southern Nigeria. It flows for approximately 198 kilometres (123 miles) and meets the sea at the Bight of Benin in Delta State. It is an important channel for small ships.
The Forçados River splits from the Niger River at Toru-Abubou near Agbere Town in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, the same point where the Nun River also separates.
People have been fishing on this river for years, often bringing their catch to a dock on the Niger River for sale, storage, or personal consumption.
History
In the early 20th century, Forçados served as a destination port for steamers from England, until the river eventually silted up.
A large hoard of bronze artefacts was discovered in the river, including:
- 1 armlet
- 7 bells
- 3 bracelets
- 1 knife
- 3 manillas
These artefacts are part of the British Museum’s collection.
Pollution
Like most rivers in the Niger Delta, the Forçados River suffers from significant pollution.
- The region has seen over three decades of crude oil extraction.
- Fossil fuel extraction leads to air, water, and soil pollution, which is hazardous to the health of residents.
- The river serves as a route for oil companies transporting crude oil, which contributes to:
- Water pollution
- Loss of aquatic life
- Environmental degradation
- Economic impact on local fishermen
Flood
Flooding along the Forçados River has serious consequences:
- Property destruction forces residents to evacuate.
- Farmland is affected, causing premature harvesting of crops.
- It leads to a setback in the agricultural sector.
See Also
- Forcados(#)
- Enclaves of Forcados and Badjibo(#)
- Wikidata Entry(https://m.wikidata.org/wiki/Q503509)
References
- British Museum Collection
- Local environmental and historical records
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