End gas flaring now, NGO advises Buhari

A Non-Governmental Organization, Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice, CEPEJ has advised the Buhari led Federal Government to put an end to gas flaring in the Niger Delta.

The National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Comrade Sheriff Mulade gave the advice in a statement made available to Fresh Angle International Friday February 16, following Federal Government plans to charge those who flout gas flaring law   that cost her billions of dollars as stated by Finance Minister, Mrs. Kemi Adeosun.

According to Comrade Mulade, oil companies preferred flaring gas instead of harnessing the gas for economic benefit to the people.

He stated that the new intention by government to approach lawmakers to amend the law and have the world “charge” replaced with “penalty” will not stop the flare since companies find it easier to flare, pay the penalty and more on, without considering the hazardous effect on the people.  

“It is believed that the gas flare law is weak, hence the oil companies flout it at will. Most communities are suffering terrible hardship as a result of gas flaring and oil spill. While some are under the threat of relocation by oil companies to make way for more gas flare”, Mulade asserted.

While urging the Federal Government to demonstrate effective political will to enact environmental friendly policies, build a dynamic and competitive energy sector, enhance governance and commitment to regulate enforcement as well as expand external financing solutions, Mulade admonished the Federal Government to provide a legal, regulatory, investment and operating environment that is conducive to upstream investments.

He also advised oil companies to develop new oil fields and operate according to plans that incorporate sustainable utilization of the fields associated with gas without routine flaring.

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