Table of Contents
- Investigation Initiated
- Community Petition
- Details of the Spill
- Community Concerns
- Action Requested from Lawmakers
- Committee's Response
The Rivers State House of Assembly has commenced an investigation into allegations that an oil company, Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, neglected an oil spill that severely impacted the B-Dere community in the Gokana Local Government Area.
This decision followed a petition from the community, represented by their estate surveyors and valuers, Hamilton Odom & Co., regarding the company's purported inaction. The petition, which was signed by ESV Hamilton Odom, was presented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Dumle Maol, and subsequently referred by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, to the House Committee on Public Complaints and Petitions, chaired by Hon. Enemi Alabo George.
As stated in the petition, the spill occurred on May 7, 2025, along the 24 Ogale-Bomu pipeline. A joint investigation conducted by the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), and representatives from the affected community determined that the spill resulted from equipment failure.
“The spill devastated our vegetation, destroyed plants, and contaminated underground water. It also disrupted farming and other economic activities, leading to a loss of income and psychological distress,” the petition highlighted.
The community expressed concern that despite the extensive damage, Renaissance Africa Energy had neither cleaned up the affected area nor provided any compensation. “What troubles us the most is the company's silence following our initial meeting to discuss compensation, which ended without any progress,” the petitioners noted.
They called upon the lawmakers to hold the company accountable for the environmental damage, ensure compensation for the affected residents, and advocate for a thorough cleanup and restoration of the land and water.
In response, the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Complaints and Petitions, Hon. Enemi Alabo George, assured that the petition would be addressed promptly, committing that the committee would strive to achieve justice for the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the investigation by the Rivers State House of Assembly?
The investigation was triggered by a petition from the B-Dere community alleging that Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited neglected an oil spill that significantly affected them.
What were the consequences of the oil spill?
The oil spill destroyed vegetation, killed plants, contaminated underground water, and disrupted farming and other economic activities, leading to financial loss and psychological distress for the community.
What actions are the community seeking from lawmakers?
The community is urging lawmakers to hold the oil company accountable for the environmental damage, ensure compensation for affected residents, and facilitate a proper cleanup and restoration of the land and water.
