By Alleged Gas Emissions in Abuja
House summons NCDC chief
Summary
- NCDC Director-General Dr. Olajide Idris to appear before House Environment Committee on June 24
- Summons follows petition on suspected gas and chemical emissions in Gaduwa, FCT
- Lawmakers seek clarity on public health risks and NCDC’s response to the incident
Abuja, Nigeria — The House of Representatives Committee on Environment has summoned the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Olajide Idris, to explain the agency’s role in addressing reports of gaseous emissions in the Gaduwa area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The summons, issued on June 19, 2025, requires Dr. Idris to appear before the committee on Tuesday, June 24, to clarify the nature, source, and health implications of the alleged gas and chemical substances released into the atmosphere.
The committee is also demanding that the NCDC present relevant technical reports, materials, and findings to aid legislative oversight and public accountability.
According to committee chairman, Right Honourable Michael Irom Etaba, the action was triggered by a petition raising environmental and public health concerns from FCT residents and stakeholders. He stated that the committee expects the NCDC to outline both immediate responses and long-term strategies to prevent a recurrence.
Although the full extent of the incident remains unclear, the issue has attracted public attention across social media platforms and various news outlets. Users have voiced concerns over potential health risks, especially in the absence of clear information on the type of substances involved or their effects.
The hearing will form part of the National Assembly’s broader efforts to enforce constitutional oversight and protect citizens from environmental hazards, while also reinforcing the NCDC’s mandate to respond swiftly to public health threats.
