By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to adopt eco-friendly and professional methods for disposing of crude oil and allied materials seized during security operations.
This call was made to address the environmental damage caused by the current practice of disposing of seized crude oil.
The House also recommended that environmental experts be included in the Joint Task Force to supervise the disposal of seized crude oil. This would help minimize incidents of crude oil spills and curb further pollution of the Niger Delta environment. Additionally, the seized crude oil could be re-absorbed into the national oil stock.
The resolution was passed following the adoption of a motion titled “Need for the Professional Disposal of Crude Oil and Associated Materials Recovered from Oil Thieves and Operators of Illegal Refineries, by the Operation Delta Safe Joint Task Force.” The motion was sponsored by Hon. Marie Enenimiete Ebikake.
The House noted the alarming rise of crude oil theft and the operations of illegal refineries, predominantly in the Niger Delta region. This has resulted in the daily loss of billions of naira. The House also expressed concern over reports of active participation by security personnel in this economic sabotage.
