Oil Surveillance: Reps Panel Clears PINL, Okunbo, Petitioners Fail to Provide Evidence

The House Committee on Host Communities in Nigeria's House of Representatives has investigated allegations against Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) and its Executive Director, Dr. Osahon Okunbo. The subcommittee found insufficient evidence to support the petition against them and recommended the petition be dismissed.

The petition, filed by the Niger Delta Oil-Producing Communities Reform Movement (ND-OCRIM) on September 5, 2026, claimed PINL's pipeline surveillance contract was improperly executed, contract funds were mismanaged, PINL's finances required a forensic review, Dr. Okunbo spent money on personal matters, and the welfare of field workers had been neglected.

However, no supporting documents or evidence were provided. ND-OCRIM was invited to present its case three times but did not appear or submit any evidence. PINL presented a written document titled "The Impact of PINL Operations on Oil Production and Stability of the Niger Delta," supported by location-tagged photographs. The panel found PINL's submission addressed the contract, finances, and welfare claims, while noting the lack of evidence for the contract funds and personal spending allegations.

Members commended PINL for its work in protecting pipelines, engaging with host communities, and providing scholarships, skills training, and flood relief. The panel recommended the full Committee dismiss the petition, maintain PINL's contract, and recognize its contributions to pipeline security.