Reps Dismiss Petition Seeking Review of NIPCO Gas Distribution Licences

The House of Representatives has dismissed a petition seeking the suspension or cancellation of gas distribution licences granted to NIPCO Plc, ruling that the issues raised do not warrant further legislative investigation.

The petition, filed by the Nigerian Energy Security Watch Group (NESWG), had urged the National Assembly to investigate the circumstances surrounding the issuance of the licences by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

Specifically, the petitioners called for the suspension or cancellation of licences covering Lagos, Ogun, Oyo and Osun states, as well as the Lagos and Lekki Free Trade Zones.

Announcing the decision on Thursday, November 5, 2026, Chairman of the House Sub-Committee, Hon. Peter Aniekwe, said members had resolved to discontinue the investigation and dismiss the petition.

“At its sitting today, the Sub-Committee resolved not to proceed with the investigation, and the petition is accordingly dismissed,” Aniekwe said.

The sub-committee was constituted in October 2026 to examine the allegations contained in the petition. It had earlier secured a 14-day extension on October 26 to conclude its assignment.

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Explaining the committee’s position, Aniekwe said the authority to issue and regulate gas distribution licences rests primarily with the NMDPRA under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), although the National Assembly retains its constitutional oversight powers.

“The grant and regulation of gas distribution licences is a statutory function of the NMDPRA under the Petroleum Industry Act, and the National Assembly will continue to exercise its oversight of that process in the public interest,” he said.

He disclosed that the regulatory agency had indicated plans to complete and roll out gas distribution licensing in the fourth quarter of 2026.

According to him, the committee would continue to monitor the process to ensure transparency and compliance with relevant regulations.

Aniekwe stressed the need for Nigeria to develop a gas distribution market that promotes competition, safeguards public interest and provides a stable operating environment for investors.

“Nigerians deserve a gas market that is open, competitive and safe, and investors deserve rules that are clear and stable,” he said.

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The lawmaker also assured individuals and organisations with concerns about developments in the gas sector that the House remained open to receiving petitions, adding that all submissions would be considered on their merits.

The decision effectively ends the committee’s consideration of the NESWG petition without a further legislative investigation into the licensing issues raised.

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