Nigerian representatives restructure the committee investigating the petroleum sector. Learn more about the changes and their potential impact
The House of Representatives has taken a noteworthy step by discontinuing the ad-hoc Joint Committee on Downstream and Midstream Petroleum tasked with investigating the operations of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL) and Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
On Monday, a statement released from Abuja by Rep Akin Rotimi, who serves as the House spokesperson stated that the committee would be substituted with an ad-hoc committee possessing identical objectives.
The initial committee had been assigned the task of delving into various crucial matters, such as the entrance of impure petroleum products and lack of access to raw oil for local refineries.
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Moreover, their jurisdiction encompassed more extensive concerns pertaining to energy security.
Rotimi stressed that the aim of the dissolution was to guarantee an effective and unbiased ongoing investigation.
He mentioned that a new committee would be formed, consisting of members carefully chosen for their expertise, competence, and integrity.
He restated the House’s dedication to tackling crucial matters and carrying out comprehensive supervision in the oil industry.
On July 3, a total of 118 House members came together under the banner “1 AGENDA” and published an advertorial in three national newspapers. However, this move was perceived as an effort to shield NNPCL from scrutiny.
In response, certain lawmakers whose names appeared on the advertisement have since distanced themselves from it. This new development emerged as a consequence of these events.
The House’s commitment to promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s petroleum industry is highlighted by the committee restructuring.
