The House of Representatives Committee on Environment has summoned the Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Olajide Idris, to appear before it over allegations of the release of hazardous gaseous substances into the atmosphere in parts of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to a petition received by the committee, the alleged emissions—believed to involve gaseous and chemical substances—were reported around the Gaduwa area of the FCT. The development has triggered growing concerns among residents and environmental stakeholders regarding its potential health and environmental impact.
In an invitation letter dated June 19, 2025, and signed by the Committee Chairman, Hon. Michael Irom Etaba, Dr. Idris is expected to appear before the committee on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. The summons seeks a comprehensive explanation regarding the nature and origin of the emissions, as well as the NCDC’s response to the reported incident.
The committee is also requesting the NCDC boss to present any preliminary findings on the health implications for affected residents and outline both immediate and long-term measures the agency has implemented to prevent similar occurrences.
According to Hobnob News, the letter emphasized the strategic importance of the NCDC in protecting public health and underscored the constitutional mandate of the House of Representatives to carry out oversight functions.
Dr. Idris has also been asked to appear with all relevant officers, reports, and technical documents that may assist the committee in fully understanding the incident and fulfilling its legislative responsibilities.
