House Gives Oando, Aiteo E&P 7 Days To Appear Before It

House of Representatives Joint Committee on Environment and Petroleum Resources has again summoned the Managing Directors of Aiteo E&P Company and Nigerian Agip Oil Company( now Oando Oil Ltd) to appear within seven days.

The companies are to provide detailed explanations about their activities, particularly regarding the oil spillage at Olugboboro Community in Southern Ijaw.

Speaking at the commencement of the hearing in Abuja, Chairman of the committee, Julius Pondi, expressed disappointment over the companies’ refusal to appear after three invitations, highlighting the committee’s aim to ensure accountability, transparency, and adherence to environmental laws and regulations.

Pondi who emphasized that the oil industry significantly contributes to Nigeria’s economic development, national income, employment, and infrastructure growth, however stressed that this contribution should not come at the expense of the environment, health, well-being, and livelihood of host communities.

“The operations of oil companies must be sustainable, environmentally responsible, and respectful of the rights and welfare of the communities they operate in, Pondi said.”

He further stated that the outcome of the hearing will not only affect the immediate Communites involved but will also set a precedent for how Nigerians approach environmental issues related to industrial activities in the future.

To this end, Pondi mandated the Clerk to write a strong letter to them stating that they have seven days to appear before the Parliament, which is the decision of the House Committees on Environment, Petroleum Upstream and Midstream.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji