The Rivers House of Assembly has mandated an investigation into allegations that Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited neglected an oil spill that severely affected the B-Dere community in Gokana Local Government Area.
The action followed a petition submitted by the community through their estate surveyors and valuers, Hamilton Odom & Co, which was presented on the floor of the House by the Deputy Speaker.
The petition was subsequently referred to the House Committee on Public Complaints and Petitions, chaired by Dr. Enemi Alabo George, for further scrutiny.
According to the petition, the spill occurred on May 7, 2025, along the 24 Ogale-Bomu pipeline, which traverses the community.
A joint assessment team, comprising officials from the Rivers State Ministry of Environment, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), and representatives from the affected community, reportedly identified the cause of the leak as equipment failure.
The petitioners described the environmental consequences in detail, noting that the spill caused significant vegetation damage, including stress, defoliation, and plant mortality.
Toxic hydrocarbons from the oil reportedly penetrated plant tissues, impairing their physiological functions, stunting growth, and preventing the regeneration of young plants and seedlings.
The spill also contaminated underground water sources, disrupted farming activities, and led to loss of income and livelihoods for residents.
The petition highlighted the psychological toll on the community, citing long-term effects on mental health and well-being.
Despite the widespread damage, the community alleged that Renaissance Africa Energy had failed to clean up the affected areas or offer any form of compensation.
The petition described the company’s response as “indifferent and silent,” noting that initial discussions over compensation ended in a deadlock.
The petitioners urged the House of Assembly to hold the company accountable, insisting that it should bear full responsibility since the incident resulted from equipment failure.
They demanded immediate assessment and compensation for economic losses and environmental degradation.
The also demanded for engagement with the company to ensure a comprehensive cleanup and remediation of the affected land and water resources as well as restoration of the environment to mitigate long-term damage to the community’s livelihood.
Receiving the petition, Dr. Enemi George, Chairman of the House Committee on Public Complaints and Petitions, assured that the matter would receive speedy attention.
He emphasised the committee’s commitment to investigating the allegations thoroughly and recommending actions to ensure accountability.
The move by the Rivers State House of Assembly reflects growing legislative pressure on oil companies to uphold environmental responsibilities and protect communities affected by industrial activities.
