Reps panel clears PINL, Okunbor of corruption allegations, backs pipeline contract extension

The House of Representatives Committee on Host Communities has recommended extending Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited's (PINL) surveillance contract, following a sub-committee finding no evidence of financial misconduct or improper contract implementation. The committee also expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu, the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited, PINL, and Dr Osahon Okunbor, PINL's Managing Director.

This decision came after PINL submitted a written report detailing its impact on oil production and stability in the Niger Delta, along with geotagged photographs as evidence. The sub-committee noted significant improvements in crude oil reaching the Bonny Terminal, with the proportion rising from 3% in May 2022 to 98% in September 2026.

PinL also highlighted the resumption of operations for Oil Mining Lease 11 within 90 days of its engagement and the remediation of illegal connections and refinery clusters. Despite allegations from the Niger Delta Oil-Producing Communities Reform Movement, the committee concluded that these claims were unsubstantiated, as the petitioners failed to appear for a hearing or provide supporting evidence.

PINL's operations covered 215 host communities and involved over 35,600 surveillance guards. The committee commended the company's contributions to community development, including scholarships, skills training, and flood relief distribution.