Anambra: The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting oil and gas host communities through stronger oversight of operators’ statutory obligations. RMAFC Chairman, Dr. Mohammed Shehu, provided assurances during an investigative hearing into Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company’s (SEEPCO) operations.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the hearing focused on the implementation of the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and reviewed issues related to SEEPCO’s operations in Anambra host communities. The hearing addressed community development obligations and other related concerns. Despite previous invitations, SEEPCO was absent from the hearing, prompting the commission to grant the company one week to appear before the committee and address issues raised during the investigation.
Dr. Shehu emphasized the commission’s commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and th
e protection of host communities’ interests across the extractive sector. He described the investigation as a critical national assignment that requires dedication and diligence from members of the Investment Monitoring Committee. Shehu commended committee members for their commitment despite challenges encountered in carrying out the assignment. He reiterated that the exercise aligns with RMAFC’s constitutional mandate to monitor revenue-related matters within Nigeria’s extractive industries.
Chairman of the committee, Dr. Ekene Enefe, underscored the necessity for host communities to enjoy all benefits guaranteed under the Petroleum Industry Act. He assured that the committee would ensure operators complied fully with the law’s provisions and fulfilled all obligations to host communities. Enefe expressed concern over SEEPCO’s continued absence despite repeated invitations and stressed the importance of meaningful engagement with the operator to resolve outstanding issues.
Dr. Enefe called on the Nigerian
Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to ensure the company honored the committee’s invitation. He emphasized the importance of operators fulfilling their statutory obligations to host communities and the federation. Mrs. Ufondu Ejiro, Director of Host Communities at NUPRC, assured the committee that SEEPCO would participate in the ongoing investigation.
Prof. Charles Ofoegbu, Anambra Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, presented issues affecting host communities in the state, highlighting the importance of sustained engagement among stakeholders. Mr. Peter Chukwudi, the legal representative of the affected communities, outlined their concerns and expectations, urging operators to comply with the PIA and the commission’s constitutional mandate.
The committee also received a preliminary forensic assessment on statutory HCDT contributions from its consultant during the hearing. This hearing forms part of RMAFC’s efforts to enhance transparency, accountability, and the effective implem
entation of the Petroleum Industry Act nationwide.