Akwa Ibom State’s Nine Gas pipeline host communities have united in their call for amendments to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021.
The purpose of these amendments is to rectify existing loopholes and flaws within the legislation.
A key point emphasized by the communities is the need to review the allocation of 3% operational expenses to host communities as stated in the PIA.
They argue that this provision requires further examination and adjustment.
Additionally, the impacted communities in Akwa Ibom State are urging the Senate to address the delay in implementing the Host Communities Development Trust Fund (HCDTF).
This fund is intended to promote development in the Niger Delta region’s affected communities.
Speaking on behalf of the communities, Emmanson stated, “The Nine Gas pipeline host communities in Akwa Ibom State, which include Abak, Etim Ekpo, Etinan, Ibesikpo Asutan, Nsit Ibom, Oruk Anam, Ukanafun, Uruan, and Uyo local government areas, are demanding amendments to the Petroleum Industry Act.”
Emmanson further explained, “Certain provisions of the Act need to be reviewed to address loopholes and flaws, such as the 3% operational cost designated for impacted host communities by the 9th National Assembly.”
The communities are also urging the swift implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust Fund (HCDTF), which aims to enhance development in the affected communities of the Niger Delta region.
“We, the impacted communities in Akwa Ibom State, call on the 10th National Assembly to impose penalties on any settlor who fails to implement the HCDTF as soon as possible,” Emmanson added.
The communities took the opportunity to express their appreciation for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidies, which they believe will foster development in the country.
They expressed optimism that Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope agenda” would come to fruition.
Furthermore, they congratulated Senator Godswill Akpabio on his appointment as the President of the 10th Senate, and expressed their confidence in his ability to lead the National Assembly effectively, making the people of the South-South region and Nigerians in general proud.
However, Emmanson raised concerns about a brewing crisis in some impacted communities in Akwa Ibom.
There are suspicions of a plot by certain politicians, particularly local government chairmen, to hijack the selection process for individuals to serve on the PIA implementation committees.
Emmanson stated, “It is unacceptable for a local government chairman to unilaterally nominate individuals for the PIA implementation committees. This action violates Section 242, Subsection 29 of the PIA, which clearly states that the company (settlor) shall, in consultation with the host communities, determine the membership of the Board of Trustees (BoT). We urge the 10th Senate to address this matter.“
