Hon. Rodney Ambaiowei Condemns Oando Representatives’ Remarks 15th Oct. 2024.

Hon. Engr. Rodney Ambaiowei, the esteemed member representing Southern Ijaw, has strongly condemned recent remarks made by representatives of Oando, formerly known as NAOC. The Oando representatives referred to the constituents of Southern Ijaw as “rogues” and accused them of having an “appetite to steal crude oil,” which they claimed led to frequent oil spills along the coastlines of the region.

In response to these derogatory statements, the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment stepped in to address the issue. He firmly requested that the representatives retract their offensive language. In a prompt acknowledgment of their misstep, the Oando representatives retracted their statements and issued an apology to Hon. Rodney and the people of Southern Ijaw.

Furthermore, Hon. Engr. Rodney Ebikebina Ambaiowei moved a motion for the House Committee on Environment to visit Olugboboro Community in Southern Ijaw LGA to have on the spot assessment on the cleanup efforts undertaken by the multinational company concerning the recent oil spill that affected the area which the committee agreed to in the coming days.

This incident highlights the importance of respectful dialogue regarding the environmental challenges faced by local communities and the need for accountability from corporate entities operating in the region.