The representatives gave a 7-day ultimatum to Mr. Wale Tinubu, Managing Director/CEO of Agip Petroleum PLC (now Oando PLC), for not responding to earlier invitation.
The House of Representatives has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Mr. Wale Tinubu, Managing Director/CEO of Agip Petroleum PLC (now Oando PLC), for failing to respond to invitations regarding an inquiry into oil spills and related environmental issues involving Aiteo E&P Company and Nigerian Agip Oil Company.
During a hearing held on Tuesday, led by Rep. Julius Pondi (PDP, Delta), the House Committee on Environment expressed concern over the absence of Oando’s management and Aiteo’s representatives. Despite multiple invitations sent to Oando, Mr. Tinubu did not attend, prompting the ultimatum for his appearance before the committee.
The inquiry, which was a collaborative effort among the Committees on Environment, Petroleum Resources (Upstream), and Petroleum Resources (Midstream), focused on the environmental impact of oil spills on communities in Olugboboro community in the southern Ijaw region of the Niger Delta.
Rep. Pondi criticized Oando for not responding to the committee’s communications, stating, “We sent invitations multiple times, yet they did not appear. Their presence is crucial for addressing the ongoing environmental concerns.”
At the session on March 12, 2024, the House considered a motion addressing the environmental impact of transporting crude oil by Aiteo from Nembe Creek Trunk to offshore storage.
House Speaker, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, while declaring the hearing open emphasized the necessity for oil companies to comply with environmental regulations. He remarked, “While we recognize your contributions to the economy, it is vital for all stakeholders, particularly oil majors, to adhere to established environmental standards. Oil spills have devastating effects on communities like Olugboboro, disrupting livelihoods and jeopardizing health.”
He further asserted that the House would take legislative action against companies neglecting environmental responsibilities, insisting that corporate activities should prioritize both accountability and the well-being of local communities.
Committee members voiced their concerns over the adverse effects of oil spills, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory agencies to enforce compliance. Deputy chair of the environment committee, Rep. Terseer Ugbor noted, “this hearing is crucial for ensuring oil companies operate sustainably and responsibly, respecting both the environment and local communities.”
Mrs. Rofikat Odetoro from the ministry of environment addressed the severe health impacts of oil spills, including the rise of diseases such as diabetes and liver ailments. She questioned the rationale behind granting Aiteo a two-year operational permit despite ongoing environmental issues, suggesting a more cautious approach.
In response to inquiries about coordination among regulatory agencies, she highlighted the need for improved collaboration, urging the National Assembly to amend existing laws to ensure all regulatory bodies work in the national interest.
Mr. Ibrahim Yahaya from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) defended the issuance of a two-year permit to Aiteo, citing the economic implications of shutting down operations, which would significantly impact the country’s oil production targets.
The hearing underscored the pressing need for accountability and collaborative efforts among regulatory bodies to protect the environment and uphold the rights of the affected communities.
