**Interview with Pondi Gbabador, Chairman of the House of Representatives Joint Committee on Environment and Petroleum Resources**

**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Gbabador. The recent oil spill in the Olugboboro Community in Southern Ijaw has caused significant concern. Could you explain why your committee decided to summon the Managing Directors of Aiteo E&P Company and Nigerian Agip Oil Company?

**Pondi Gbabador:** Certainly. We felt it necessary to summon the Managing Directors after they failed to respond to our invitations on three occasions. Their lack of cooperation is concerning, particularly given the serious environmental implications of their operations in the communities they serve. It is vital that they come before us within the next week to address these matters directly.

**Interviewer:** Could you provide more details about your committee’s mandate related to this investigation?

**Pondi Gbabador:** Our committee has been tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the activities and operations of both Aiteo E&P Company and Nigerian Agip Oil Company, now known as Oando Oil Ltd. We believe these companies pose significant environmental risks, not just to their immediate areas but to the country as a whole. While the oil industry is crucial for our economic development—providing jobs and supporting infrastructure—it should not jeopardize the health and livelihoods of the communities affected.

**Interviewer:** Recently, the House of Representatives discussed the environmental impact of transporting crude oil. What actions were taken in light of that discussion?

**Pondi Gbabador:** In our session on March 12, 2024, we passed a motion urging the Federal Ministry of Environment to require Aiteo E&P to conduct an environmental impact assessment for their transportation project. This assessment needs to engage local communities, state governments, and stakeholders, and must adhere to international standards. It’s essential that the public and environmental experts have the opportunity to review the findings.

**Interviewer:** Regarding the oil spill you mentioned, what specific steps did your committee take?

**Pondi Gbabador:** Following the oil spill from Nigerian Agip Oil Company’s facilities on July 23, 2024, we reacted promptly by urging them to stop and contain the leak immediately. Additionally, we called on the National Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials to those affected and demanded urgent compensation for the damage caused to livelihoods and resources since April 2024. Our committee will also investigate the causes and extent of the spill and will report back within four weeks.

**Interviewer:** What are your expectations for the hearings with the Managing Directors?

**Pondi Gbabador:** We anticipate they will provide clear and detailed accounts of their operations and the measures they are taking to mitigate environmental impacts. This is a critical opportunity for transparency and accountability. Our aim is not to vilify these companies but to ensure that they comply with environmental regulations.

**Interviewer:** How do you see the outcomes of these hearings influencing future environmental practices in Nigeria?

**Pondi Gbabador:** The findings from these hearings are set to establish a significant precedent for how we address environmental issues related to industrial activities in the future. Protecting our environment is crucial for both current and future generations, and we must ensure that oil companies operate sustainably and ethically in our communities.

**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Mr. Gbabador. Is there anything else you would like to add?

**Pondi Gbabador:** I appreciate the chance to share our perspective today. I trust that our discussions will be professional and focused on justice. The environment is a shared legacy, and protecting it is a responsibility we all share. Thank you.

**Rofikat Odetorowho, representing the Ministry of Environment, also highlighted that the approval for the environmental impact assessment requires crude oil to be evacuated through pipelines, not barges as Aiteo currently does.**