The House of Representatives Sub-Committee investigating the petition against NIPCO Plc has dismissed the allegations challenging the gas distribution licences awarded to the company, ruling that the petitioners failed to provide credible evidence to substantiate their claims.
The petition, filed by the Nigerian Energy Security Watch Group (NESWG), sought an investigation, suspension and cancellation of gas distribution licences issued to NIPCO Plc by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Osun States, as well as the Lagos and Lekki Free Trade Zones.
The Sub-Committee, chaired by Hon. Peter Aniekwe, with Hon. Dahaltu Shehu as a member, reached the decision at its sitting on Thursday, November 5, 2026, describing the petition as lacking substance and sufficient evidence.
The lawmakers held that the petitioners relied largely on hearsay and failed to establish any of the allegations raised against the company.
Announcing the decision, Aniekwe said the Sub-Committee had resolved not to proceed with the investigation.
“At its sitting today, the Sub-Committee resolved not to proceed with the investigation, and the petition is accordingly dismissed,” he stated.
He explained that the issuance and regulation of gas distribution licences fall within the statutory responsibilities of the NMDPRA under the Petroleum Industry Act, while stressing that the National Assembly would continue to exercise its oversight responsibilities in the public interest.
Aniekwe further disclosed that the NMDPRA had committed to completing and rolling out gas distribution licensing in the fourth quarter of 2026.
He said the Sub-Committee would closely monitor the process to ensure the development of an open, competitive and safe gas market.
“Nigerians deserve a gas market that is open, competitive and safe, and investors deserve rules that are clear and stable,” he said.
The Sub-Committee was constituted in October 2026 to examine the petition and was granted an additional 14 days on October 26 to conclude its assignment.
Aniekwe added that the House remained open to Nigerians and organisations with genuine concerns about the gas sector, assuring that every petition would be considered on its merits.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
