By Mercy Aikoye
The House of Representatives Committee on Environment has summoned NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd to appear before it on March 4, after the company failed to honor an earlier invitation on February 18. This development comes on the heels of a petition from stakeholders regarding environmental degradation and pollution caused by oil drilling activities in Buguma and Degema areas of Rivers State.
Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Julius Pondi, disclosed that the summons was in response to the petition, which highlighted the devastating impact of oil drilling on the environment. The committee had earlier received a formal complaint against NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd over a fire and oil spill incident in Buguma, Degema Local Government Area.
The lawmakers are taking a strong stance on environmental protection, and this summons is a clear indication of their commitment to addressing the concerns of affected communities. In addition to NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd, the committee has also invited relevant stakeholders and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to deliberate on grievances raised by the Bukuma community in Rivers.
The Bukuma community has accused NNPC of failing to implement a 2021 court judgment mandating the grouping of oil-producing communities into clusters for development purposes. This accusation adds to the growing list of environmental concerns and alleged neglect of affected communities.
The Committee is expected to hear from all parties involved and take necessary steps to address the environmental concerns. This may include enforcing regulations, providing compensation to affected communities, and ensuring that oil companies operate responsibly.
Hon. Julius Pondi emphasized the importance of addressing environmental degradation and pollution caused by oil drilling activities. He stressed that the committee will take all necessary steps to ensure that the concerns of affected communities are heard and addressed.
The hearing on March 4 will provide an opportunity for NNPC Eighteen Operating Ltd and other stakeholders to respond to the allegations and provide a plan to address the environmental concerns. The outcome of the hearing will be closely watched by environmental activists and affected communities.
