The House of Representatives has launched an investigation into allegations of harmful waste disposal by oil companies in Delta communities.
This follows a motion by Hon. Julius Pondi (Delta, PDP) at plenary on Tuesday.Pondi raised concerns about the environmental and health impacts of hazardous waste pollution, highlighting issues like gas flaring, oil spills, and ineffective waste management in the Niger Delta. He also noted significant gaps in regulating industrial and domestic waste disposal.Hon. Julius Pondi (PDP, Delta) emphasized that despite numerous waste management laws, harmful disposal practices persist.
He highlighted challenges in waste control and effluent use in manufacturing and oil sectors, warning of hazardous ecosystems, agricultural loss, and coastal degradation.He urged NESREA and NOSDRA to strengthen enforcement of environmental laws.
The House, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, unanimously passed the motion through a voice vote.The Green Chamber urged the Federal Ministry of Environment and NESREA to implement cleaner and safer waste disposal methods.
Additionally, the Speaker directed the Committee on Environment to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the environmental damage affecting host communities in the Niger Delta.
