By Paul Effiong, Abuja
The House of Representatives Committee on Environment has inaugurated a Sub-Committee to investigate environmental pollution arising from the illegal disposal of used batteries across the country.
The Sub-Committee was constituted in line with the Committee’s oversight mandate to ensure strict compliance with environmental laws and to address mounting concerns over hazardous waste management nationwide.
This was disclosed in a strongly worded statement signed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Mike Etaba, and made available to journalists in Abuja.
The Committee noted that the improper disposal, unlawful auctioning and indiscriminate dumping of used batteries have become a serious environmental challenge. These activities pose significant risks to soil quality, water resources, air safety and public health, particularly in communities where informal recycling and unsafe handling practices are prevalent.
The investigative panel has been mandated to assess the level of compliance by both public and private sector organisations with existing environmental regulations governing the handling, storage, transportation and disposal of used batteries. The Committee emphasised that accountability and strict enforcement are essential to preventing further environmental degradation.
In the course of its assignment, the Sub-Committee will examine the implementation of key environmental legislation, including the Environmental Impact Assessment, EIA, Act; the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 under the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, NESREA,; and the Harmful Waste (Special Criminal Provisions) Act. These laws expressly prohibit the unlawful dumping and improper disposal of hazardous waste, including used batteries.
The Sub-Committee, chaired by Hon. Terseer Ugbor, has been given a six-week deadline to complete its investigation and submit its report to the Committee for further legislative action.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Environment expressed confidence in the Sub-Committee’s capacity to deliver on its mandate and reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to strengthening environmental governance, ensuring compliance and safeguarding Nigerians from the dangers associated with hazardous waste pollution.
He further reiterated that environmental protection remains a national priority and assured stakeholders of a transparent and thorough investigative process.
