Evaluation of the Effect of Depletion of Wetland for sustainability in Obeno LGA, Akwa-Ibom state, Nigeria

The study assessed the effects of depletion of wetland for sustainability of Ibeno Local Government ofAkwa Ibom State. The specific key objectives of the-study were to investigate the respondent perception of wetland status in the study area, to examine the correlation between the wetland resources and per capita income of the respondents, and to examine the factors responsible for wetland depletion in the study area. These objectives were justified on the basis that, the perception of the implications of depleting wetland on rural sustainability is already taking global position, and which this research work has studied. For the purpose of collecting needful data, 160 copies of questionnaire were administered, and 150 were recovered using the systematic random sampling technique after the area had been stratified into three phases in accordance with the area council layout plan. Descriptive statistical techniques such as the simple percentages, table, and bar charts were used to present and analyze data in order to achieve the formulated objectives. Causal Analysis (PPMC) was also used to test the hypothesis. The study revealed the negative implication of wetland depletion and its impact on not just livelihood sustainability but also a collapsing ecosystem. The study further showed that the immediate beneficiaries of wetland resources were aware of the depleted state of marine resources. Upon empirical investigation, it was realized that the community dwellers were dissatisfied with the depleted state of their resources as they could recall loads of species of flora and fauna that are no longer seen within their environment and they now wipe for their lack of unsustainable usage, as well as their unaware state of mind over their depleted resources and its effect on them, their environment and their socio­ economic structure that is collapsing by the day. The study however recommended that, the level of establishment of oil companies and their associated activities on the wetland ecosystem should be minimized and regulated, the use of poisonous, toxic and harmful substances should be completely discouraged and heavy penalties be levied on them within the domestic fishing areas, and afforestation, reforestation and wetland ecosystem restoration programmes should be put in place for purpose of sustainable development.