“If it’ll cost us our lives to stand on the part of truth, we’ll do that,” – Fubara.
By Ogechi Okorie
The Nigeria’s House of Representatives on Wednesday said that the remarks by Reps Cyril Hart, who represented the Speaker at the 2024 Society of Petroleum Engineers Oloibiri Lecture Series and Energy Forum (SPEOLEF) convened in Abuja was his personal opinions and viewpoints and do not reflect the official stance of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass nor do they constitute the collective perspective of the House as an institution.
The House Spokesman / Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr made the clarification in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja.
Rotimi reiterated that the House of Representatives operates as a diverse body with members holding a broad spectrum of opinions and viewpoints on various matters of national interest.
The stateme reads in full:
It has been brought to our attention that certain statements attributed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD. have been circulating in various media outlets.
In order to uphold transparency and accuracy, we find it necessary to provide comprehensive clarification and context regarding these matters.
The statements in question purportedly emanated from Rep. Cyril Hart, who represented the Speaker at the 2024 Society of Petroleum Engineers Oloibiri Lecture Series and Energy Forum (SPEOLEF) convened in Abuja. While it is acknowledged that Rep. Hart delivered remarks at this esteemed forum, it is crucial to underscore that his expressions therein were conveyed as his personal opinions and viewpoints.
It is incumbent upon us to stress that the views articulated by Rep. Hart do not reflect the official stance of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, nor do they constitute the collective perspective of the House as an institution. The House of Representatives operates as a diverse body with members holding a broad spectrum of opinions and viewpoints on various matters of national interest.
In light of recent discussions at the SPEOLEF regarding Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, as well as the implications of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), we acknowledge the concerns raised by some stakeholders. However, it is imperative to address and refute assertions suggesting a lack of confidence in the PIA.
The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) represents a milestone achievement in the reform of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in the management of our nation’s valuable natural resources. It is the result of extensive deliberations, consultations, and collaboration among stakeholders across various sectors, including government, industry players, civil society organizations, and the public.
Contrary to claims of widespread skepticism, the PIA has garnered significant support from reputable industry experts, international partners, and investors who recognize its potential to unlock opportunities for sustainable development and growth in Nigeria’s energy sector. The Act provides a framework for addressing longstanding challenges, such as regulatory inefficiencies, revenue management, and community engagement, thereby fostering a conducive environment for investment and innovation.
While it is acknowledged that concerns may exist regarding certain provisions or implementation mechanisms of the PIA, it is essential to approach these issues through constructive dialogue and engagement, rather than resorting to blanket assertions.
The House of Representatives remains committed to overseeing the effective implementation of the PIA, and making amendments as necessary, ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are safeguarded and that the objectives of the Act are realised for the benefit of the Nigerian people.
We urge media outlets and the public alike to exercise prudence and diligence in attributing statements to the appropriate individuals and entities, as misrepresentation or misinterpretation can undermine the integrity of public discourse and democratic processes.
For further inquiries, clarifications, or requests for official statements from the House of Representatives, please do not hesitate to contact the Office of the House Spokesman / Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs.
Sincerely,
Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr.
House Spokesman / Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs
By Chris Udochukwu
In continuation of my visits to institutions whose roles are critical to the poor and less privileged in our society, yesterday in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, I visited the Daughters of Charity of St Vincent De Paul – Peter Obi said.
LAGOS- On Tuesday, residents of Lagos after suffering from a terrible heat wave for weeks, welcomed the rain. While they heaved sighs of relief at as the open heavens, the floods which submerged some communities in the city of aquatic splendour brought did not cheer the citizens.
Nigeria’s forward #9 Victor Osimhen (L) speaks with President of Ivory Coast Alassane Ouattara at the end of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 final football match between Ivory Coast and Nigeria at Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Ebimpe, Abidjan on February 11, 2024. (Photo by Sia KAMBOU / AFP)
BORNO- An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) planted by Boko Haram terrorists on the Pulka/Firgi road in Gwoza Local Government of Borno State has killed seven farmers in a commercial vehicle.
Intelligence Sources told Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert in the Lake Chad region, that the incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, January 29, 2024, when the vehicle conveying the victims ran over an explosive.
The sources said that seven passengers including the driver were confirmed dead, seven others were severely injured while other bodies were shattered into pieces by the explosive.
ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists have been resorting to desperate but extreme measures to fight back against the crushing intrusion of their enclaves by the Nigerian Military, Zagazola reported.
They heightened the use of IEDs as their major warfare tactics due to their weakness and depleted capacity.
These landmines had in the past days and weeks claimed the lives of innocent civilians – mostly women children in Borno state.
The IEDs, mostly locally made bombs, account for more than half of the fatalities recorded in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign in the Northeast.
HE Peter Obi attends Sim Fubara Governorship Opening Event in Rivers State today. PO is the only politicians in Nigeria who plays politics of none bitterness rather, politics of love, unity, accountability, and the people’s oriented politics.
