By Karen James
In a bid to address the distressing incidents and economic sabotage occurring in Anambra State, the Anambra State House of Assembly has summoned oil and gas exploration companies operating in the state to appear before the House in a plenary session on Tuesday, 3rd September, 2024 at 12.00 noon. The summon was issued by the Speaker, Right Honourable Somtochukwu Udeze, following a matter of urgent public importance raised by Honourable Chidiebele Ibemeka, the member representing Njikoka Constituency One and Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum and Mineral Resources.
The companies that have been summoned include Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company, Sahara Energy Resources, Orient Petroleum Resources, Cotton Wooden Gas Limited, and the Commissioner Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission. Representatives including the Group Chairman, Chief Operating Officer, Vice President of the Company, Group Managing Director, Base Manager, Head of Environmental and Production Department, and Head of the Safety and Environment Department of these companies have been asked to appear before the House.
The urgency of the matter is underscored by the distressing incidents and gross economic sabotage that have coincided with the operations of these companies, especially in the Ogwuaniocha and Ogwuikpele Communities within Ogbaru Council Area. Persistent unrest, killings, protests, and vandalization of property have disrupted the lives and livelihoods of residents, prompting the Assembly and government to take decisive actions.
Honourable Ibemeka stressed the need for an immediate and thorough inquiry into the role and responsibilities of the oil and gas exploration companies, highlighting the lack of accountability and fulfillment of Corporate Social Responsibility. The affected communities deserve answers and immediate remedial actions to restore peace and security.
Other lawmakers including Sir Ejike Okechukwu, Barrister Jude Umennajiego, Dr Jude Akpua, Honourable Augustine Ike, and Honourable Noble Igwe echoed these concerns, emphasizing the severe damage caused by the companies’ activities to the security and lives of the people of Anambra.
The Speaker, Right Honourable Udeze, expressed deep concern over the situation and read out the resolution which received broad support from the lawmakers. It is hoped that the summon will provide a platform for a comprehensive briefing on the general business activities of the oil and gas exploration companies in order to address the pressing issues and restore peace to the affected communities.
