PIA: Niger Delta Accountability Network Criticizes Reps Committee for ‘Misleading’ Trillion-Naira Allegations

Table of Contents

• Refutation of Claims
• Impact of PIA Implementation
• Caution Against Political Statements
• Monitoring Host Communities Development
• Regulatory Framework Improvements
• Rebuilding Investor Confidence
• Importance of Evidence-Based Oversight

An oil and gas watchdog, the Niger Delta Accountability and Resource Protection Network (NDARPN), has denied claims made by the House of Representatives Committee on the South South Development Commission, which stated that Nigeria's failure to implement key aspects of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) has resulted in a loss of over ₦1 trillion for the region.

In a statement released on Friday in Port Harcourt, the group's president, Comrade Ebikabo West, characterized the committee's claims as “sensational, misleading, and potentially harmful to the investment stability that the PIA has consistently fostered.”

West noted that the implementation of the PIA by the relevant regulatory bodies, especially regarding the management of host community development funds and environmental responsibilities, has been more impactful and transparent than any framework prior to the PIA.

He cautioned lawmakers against making political statements that could “undermine investor confidence or disrupt the delicate progress that has been achieved to date.”

“It is simply incorrect to assert that the Niger Delta has been deprived of trillions due to the funds not being managed in the dramatic manner suggested,” West stated.

“The provisions for host community development within the PIA are being effectively and diligently monitored. The regulatory framework now guarantees that communities benefit directly, with clear oversight and traceability.”

According to him, the PIA has established enforceable obligations that regulators now monitor with much stronger compliance mechanisms than those that were in place previously.

He added that the narrative of “non-implementation” overlooks the verifiable progress made in host communities and environmental management.

“We must exercise caution not to weaponize environmental issues or misrepresent regulatory processes. Such depictions undermine the credibility of reforms and weaken the collective struggle for environmental justice,” West warned.

He also highlighted that Nigeria is progressively restoring the confidence of multinational oil companies that left the country due to years of regulatory instability, conflicting directives, and institutional pressures that previously “stifled investment.”

“After decades of uncertainty, Nigeria now possesses a stable legislative and fiscal environment. It is prudent to allow the relevant agencies to execute their mandates strictly in accordance with the PIA. Any efforts to involve them in political theatrics could jeopardize the gradual restoration of investor confidence,” the group emphasized.

NDARPN stated that while the National Assembly's oversight role is crucial, it should be based on evidence rather than assumptions that could create confusion or tension within the sector.

“What the Niger Delta requires is consolidation, not disruption. Let the institutions empowered by the PIA continue their work without undue pressure. This is the most reliable path to accountability, environmental protection, and sustainable development,” West advised.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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