Reps Committee Inaugurates Sub-panel To Probe Disposal Of Hazardous Wastes

The House of Representatives Committee on Environment has inaugurated a sub-panel to investigate environmental pollution resulting from illegal disposal of used batteries across Nigeria.

In a statement on Thursday, Chairman of the committee, Rep. Mike Etaba (PDP-Cross River), announced Rep. Terseer Ugbor (APC-Benue) as chairman of the sub-panel.

Etaba said that the sub-panel was established as part of its oversight responsibility to ensure strict compliance with environmental laws and address the growing concerns of hazardous waste management in the country.

According to him, improper disposal, unlawful auctioning and indiscriminate dumping of used batteries have become a serious environmental challenge.

Etaba said that improper disposal posed significant risks to soil quality, water bodies, air safety as well as public health, particularly in communities where informal recycling and unsafe handling practices were prevalent.

He mandated the sub-panel to assess the level of compliance by both private and public sector organisations with existing environmental regulations governing the handling, storage, transportation and disposal of used batteries.

Etaba said that accountability and enforcement were critical to preventing further environmental degradation.

“In carrying out its assignment, the sub-panel will examine the implementation of key environmental laws like Environmental Impact Assessment Act, National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 under the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, and the Harmful Waste (Special Criminal Provisions) Act.

“These laws clearly prohibit the unlawful dumping and improper disposal of hazardous waste, including used batteries.

“The sub-committee will be chaired by Rep. Terseer Ugbor and it has been given a six week timeframe to complete its investigation and submit its report to the committee for further legislative action,” he said.

Etaba expressed confidence in the capacity of members of the sub-committee to deliver on its mandate.

He reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to strengthening environmental governance and enforcing compliance as well as to protecting Nigerians from the dangers associated with hazardous waste pollution.

According to the lawmaker, environmental protection remains a national priority, assuring stakeholders of transparent and thorough investigative proceedings. (NAN)