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Reps probe alleged environmental pollution by Oando, Aiteo in Bayelsa
The House of Representatives has commenced an investigation into alleged environmental pollution by Agip Oil and Aiteo Exploration and Production in host communities of Bayelsa State.
The investigation was organised by a joint committee on Environment, Petroleum Resources Upstream, and Midstream on Tuesday in Abuja.
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abass, said the exercise was a fact-finding one.
He said the probe was aimed at unraveling specific details about the unwholesome environmental degradation in Nembe, Brass, and Southern Ijaw local government areas of the state.
The speaker said: “Our primary concern is to identify those behind these devastations to stem the ugly trend for enhanced socio-economic development of our communities.
“It is widely recognised that both onshore and offshore operations by certain oil companies in parts of the oil-rich Niger Delta have caused significant and avoidable harm to the environment and the local communities.
“These adverse effects include oil spills, noise pollution, contamination of water sources, and elevated carbon emissions, all of which continue to damage the ecosystem and disrupt the livelihoods of the host communities.
“These adverse impacts have destroyed the livelihood of the people and their well-being, health issues, loss of aquatic lives, and devastation of our biodiversity.
“Let us be reminded that the 10th House views corporate activities that are in flagrant disregard of global best practices, due process, and established norms with deep concern.
“We cannot stand idly by while the environment suffers due to negligence or greed. Oil majors must understand that their operations must align with accountability and transparency.”
In his remarks, the committee Chairman, Pondi Gbabojor, said the panel would consult environmental experts, and relevant government agencies, to have a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
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