The Nigerian House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the illegal disposal and mishandling of used batteries nationwide, aiming to curb severe environmental pollution and protect public health.
Chairman Hon. Mike Etaba, the initiative forms part of the lawmakers' oversight responsibilities to enforce compliance with environmental regulations and tackle the escalating dangers posed by hazardous waste.
Improper disposal, unauthorized auctioning, and indiscriminate dumping of spent batteries often containing toxic substances like lead and acid have emerged as major threats.
These practices contaminate soil, pollute water sources, degrade air quality, and endanger communities, especially in areas reliant on informal recycling and unsafe handling methods.
A dedicated sub-committee, chaired by Hon. Terseer Ugbo (also referred to as Hon. Terseer Ugbor in related contexts), will examine how both public and private entities adhere to rules on the collection, storage, transportation, and disposal of used batteries.
The probe will review key legislation, including the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Act, the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations 2024 enforced by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and the Harmful Waste (Special Criminal Provisions) Act.
These laws strictly ban unlawful dumping and improper management of hazardous materials.Etaba emphasized that strong accountability and rigorous enforcement are essential to halt further ecological harm.
The sub-committee has been given a six-week deadline to conclude its findings and present recommendations for potential new laws or strengthened measures.
Expressing optimism in the sub-committee's work, Etaba reaffirmed the committee's dedication to bolstering environmental governance, ensuring regulatory compliance, and shielding Nigerians from the risks of hazardous waste.
“Environmental protection remains a national priority,” Etaba said. “We assure all stakeholders of transparent and thorough investigative proceedings.”
This move comes against a backdrop of heightened awareness about battery-related pollution in Nigeria, including concerns over lead exposure in recycling communities.
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