Nigeria’s lower legislative chamber has urged oil and gas companies operating in Imo State to comply with key provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, citing widespread breaches of local content and host community development obligations.
The call came after a motion of urgent national importance was raised by Rep. Chike Okafor, representing Ehime Mbano/Obowo/Ihitte-Uboma Federal Constituency, during Wednesday’s plenary session.
Okafor said the motion was aimed at supporting Governor Hope Uzodimma’s efforts to enforce compliance with the Act, particularly the sections mandating companies to set up operational bases in host communities and contribute to the Host Communities Development Trust.
“These provisions are designed to create jobs and drive local development, yet several companies continue to disregard them,” he told lawmakers.
He named Seplat Energy Plc, Niger Delta Petroleum Resources, and Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Company Ltd among those allegedly failing to meet their obligations.
Describing the situation as a “flagrant abuse of due process and local content laws,” Okafor called for legislative measures to ensure enforcement.
The Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, referred the motion to the relevant committees for detailed investigation and follow-up action.
