By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee investigating the management of oil spill clean-up funds in the Niger Delta has restated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice in the use of resources set aside for environmental remediation in the region.
Chairman of the committee, Rep. Okpolupm Etteh, gave the assurance during an investigative hearing held on Thursday in Abuja. 
He explained that the probe seeks to uncover how funds allocated to the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) and other related interventions have been managed, with the ultimate goal of ensuring that affected communities receive proper redress.
“The House has mandated this committee to investigate the management of oil spill clean-up funds. Our goal is clear — to uncover the truth.
“We will scrutinise project implementation, procurement processes, training programmes, intelligence coordination, and the actual delivery of remediation and restitution to Niger Delta communities”, Rep. Etteh stated.
He added that the inquiry would also examine the performance of regulatory agencies, transparency in contract awards, and the pace of remediation projects funded by the federal government and its partners.
“When monitoring and verification reveal gaps, delays, or irregularities, the committee will not hesitate to identify those responsible and recommend corrective measures. This is about ensuring that funds meant for environmental recovery are used effectively for the people who have suffered the most,” he added.
The chairman explained that all committee proceedings would be properly documented to guarantee accountability, and witnesses would be required to provide truthful testimonies and original evidence of work executed.
He further urged relevant government bodies to fully cooperate with the committee and provide all requested information without delay.
“These agencies include the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), the Federal Ministry of Finance, and other related entities”, he stated.
Etteh acknowledged the role of civil society groups, community leaders, and technical partners in championing environmental justice in the Niger Delta, assuring that individuals who share sensitive information in good faith will receive adequate protection.
“Let me be clear — this is not a political theatre or a public show. It is a rigorous, evidence-driven inquiry aimed at restoring accountability, recovering misapplied public funds, addressing institutional failures, and ensuring that real remediation reaches our communities.”
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, reaffirmed the legislature’s resolve to ensure that public resources are properly utilised for the benefit of citizens.
“Our parliament conducts legislative activities to ensure that public funds are not only spent but are spent efficiently for the good of all.
“This investigation will help us determine who manages these funds, how they are applied, which communities are to benefit, and whether transparency and accountability were maintained throughout the process.”
Represented by the Chief Whip, Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, the Speaker clarified that the inquiry was not designed to target any individual or institution but to strengthen governance and prevent the misuse of public resources.
“We appeal to the agencies concerned to appear before this committee with the necessary information and evidence that will help the committee make fair, balanced, and just recommendations,” Kumo stated.
“The House will continue to provide legislative oversight to ensure that the goals of the oil spill clean-up are achieved in a transparent and impactful manner.”
He urged committee members to carry out their responsibilities with diligence, impartiality, and professionalism, guided by the national interest and the welfare of the Niger Delta people.
The Speaker also called for stronger collaboration between federal agencies and community-based organisations to ensure that the clean-up projects create real impact through job opportunities, improved livelihoods, and restoration of the environment.
