The Senate Committee on Oil and Gas Host Communities has mandated the Managing Director of Total Energies, Mr. Matthieu Bouyer to appear before it in his own interest.
The Committee said that Bouyer has refused its previous invitations to interface with it on the matters bothering on the implementation challenges of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the pressing need to address the grievances of host communities as well as the mode of operation of the oil company.
In what appears as a final notice of appearance to the MD contained in a statement released to newsmen by the chairman of the committee, Senator Benson Agadaga, on Monday, the Senate panel expressed disappointment in Bouyer for refusing to honour its invitation, stating it was against all democratic conventions and spirit of public service.
Frowning at what it described as “the attitude of the MD,” the committee chairman stated that it has become customary for certain oil companies to delegate representatives rather than attending summons in person.
He said that the issues at stake needed the physical appearance of the chief executives who are expected to speak for themselves and not through proxies.
Agadaga also emphasised that oil and gas companies must ensure transparency, equity, well-being of their host communities.
The committee however advised Bouyer to reconsider his position and honour the invitation, stressing that failure to do so will worsen the lack of confidence from the public, which poses a significant threat to the collective advancement of the nation.
The statement read: “The ramifications of this refusal extend far beyond the confines of bureaucratic indifference. It signals a dangerous precedent where those in the country’s vital oil and gas sector shirk their responsibilities with impunity. Such actions breed distrust and disillusionment among citizens who rightfully expect the companies to uphold the highest standards of governance and accountability.
“The Senate Committee calls upon the MD and indeed others in similar position to reconsider their stance and honor the invitation to appear before the committee. Failure to do so will only deepen public mistrust and fuel the flames of discontent that threaten to engulf our nation’s progress. Nigeria deserves better”, the statement added.
