Reps Inaugurate Probe Panel on Illegal Used Battery Disposal, Cite Public Health and Environmental Risks
The House of Representatives Committee on Environment has inaugurated a sub-committee to investigate the growing environmental pollution linked to the illegal disposal of used batteries across Nigeria, raising alarm over the threat to public health and ecological safety.
The investigative panel, set up as part of the Committee’s constitutional oversight function, is mandated to examine widespread non-compliance with environmental laws governing hazardous waste management. Lawmakers expressed concern over reports of improper disposal, unlawful auctioning, and indiscriminate dumping of used batteries, describing the trend as a serious national environmental challenge.
According to the Committee, unsafe handling and informal recycling practices have exposed several communities to contamination of soil, water sources, and air quality, with potential long-term health consequences.
The sub-committee will assess compliance levels among both private and public sector operators with regulations on the handling, storage, transportation, and disposal of used batteries. It will also review enforcement mechanisms to ensure accountability and prevent further environmental degradation.
In carrying out its assignment, the panel will scrutinise the implementation of key environmental laws, including the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act, the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 under the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency, and the Harmful Waste (Special Criminal Provisions) Act, all of which prohibit unlawful dumping and improper disposal of hazardous waste.
Chairman of the sub-committee, Terseer Ugbor, has been given six weeks to conclude the investigation and submit a report for further legislative action.
READ ALSO: MURIC Urges FG to Include NASFAT Camp in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Pedestrian Bridge Plan
NASS to Meet Bola Ahmed Tinubu Over Security Funding Gaps, Seeks Review of Envelope Budgeting System
Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Mike Etaba, expressed confidence in the panel’s capacity to deliver on its mandate, reaffirming the Committee’s commitment to strengthening environmental governance and safeguarding Nigerians from the dangers posed by hazardous waste pollution.
The Committee assured stakeholders of a transparent and thorough investigative process, stressing that environmental protection remains a national priority.
About The Author
