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From: Ndubuisi Orji and Kemi Yesufu, Abuja
Speaker, House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, on Thursday, inaugurated an Ad-Hoc to investigate the planned relocation of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) from Rivers State.
Speaking at the inauguration of the ad-hoc committee, the Speaker, who was represented by the Deputy Majority Whip, Hon Pally Iriase, said the planned relocation has generated tension within the area, noting that if nothing is done about it, the situation might escalate.
Dogara tasked the committee, which has four weeks to complete its assignments, to come up with a report that will be fair to all the parties involved.
His words :”Relocation by the SPDC is said to be based on security concerns today. This has generated outcry and agitation by the people and if we as a House do not address it, it may escalate and result to violence and insecurity.”
He added that there is need for improved relationship between the Federal Government and the Niger Delta, as it will help in addressing current economic challenges in the country.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee, Hon Ishiaka Ibrahim stated that in the course of its assignment, the committee will interface with all the relevant stakeholders on the matter.
He promised that the committee will be fair to all concerned.
According to him :”We shall engage all relevant stakeholders in order to come up with report and recommendation that would stand the test of time.
“We shall also consider all factors surrounding the conception of the decision of the SPDC planned relocation from Port Harcourt.”
The House had in January this year adopted a motion to intervene in planned relocation of SPDC from Rivers State.
