The Senate has postponed its planned investigation into alleged sabotage within Nigeria’s petroleum sector, citing the need for broader consultations with key stakeholders. This decision is intended to enhance the value of the upcoming investigative hearing, ensuring a comprehensive review of the issues at hand.
In addition to stakeholder input, the postponement was attributed to legislative priorities that require further due diligence in the investigation process. These updates were disclosed in a statement issued Sunday by the Senate Leader’s Office, headed by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who also serves as chairman of the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Economic Sabotage in the Petroleum Industry.
The Senate had earlier established the ad-hoc committee to examine significant spending on refinery maintenance, scrutinize regulatory agencies over payments to transporters, and investigate claims of substandard diesel and hazardous petroleum imports into the country.
The committee had completed preliminary engagements with government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) alongside private-sector stakeholders in the downstream and midstream sectors. Following these discussions, the investigative hearing was initially scheduled for September 10-12, 2024.
However, Senator Bamidele announced that, after further consultations with committee members and major industry figures, the hearing has been postponed. He assured that a new date would be communicated to all parties involved.
Bamidele emphasized that the postponement was made in the national interest, reflecting the need for extensive stakeholder engagement and consideration of the broader economic realities. He apologized for any inconvenience caused, stressing that the delay will allow for a more thorough investigation and the formulation of lasting solutions for the challenges facing the petroleum sector.
The Senate Leader reassured stakeholders that the new hearing date would be announced soon.
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