The House of Representatives, has inaugurated an ad-hoc committee to investigate the alleged mismanagement of oil spill clean-up funds in the Niger Delta with a vow to ensure accountability, transparency, and justice for affected communities.
Speaking during the inauguration at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Friday, Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, said the committee’s establishment reflects the House’s unwavering commitment to environmental justice and responsible management of public resources.
“Today, I stand before you with a profound sense of duty and dedication to our nation as the Ad-Hoc Committee on the Mismanagement of Oil Spill Clean-Up Funds in the Niger Delta is officially inaugurated,” Etteh stated.
He expressed gratitude to the leadership of the House for the confidence reposed in him and members of the committee, describing the assignment as a “significant national responsibility” aimed at addressing years of neglect and environmental degradation in the region.
“The establishment of this Committee by this Honourable House underscores our shared commitment to ensuring accountability, transparency, and environmental justice for the people of the Niger Delta,” he added.
Etteh lamented that despite several interventions and billions of naira allocated over the years for clean-up efforts, the Niger Delta continues to suffer severe environmental damage and economic hardship.
“The Niger Delta has faced years of environmental degradation and untold damage due to oil exploration and frequent spills. In response, various government agencies have been created or assigned the responsibility of conducting environmental remediation and clean-up operations,” he said.
“Unfortunately, troubling reports of alleged mismanagement, inefficiency, and poor coordination have overshadowed these initiatives. Funds allocated for clean-up efforts have not produced the anticipated outcomes, leaving communities still affected, livelihoods in jeopardy, and public trust diminished,” he lamented.
According to him, the committee’s mandate includes uncovering the truth behind the use of clean-up funds, evaluating the performance of government agencies, and recommending reforms for sustainable remediation.
