By Chima Nwokoji
Tensions are mounting in Ekugba community, Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, following accusations of long-standing neglect and failure to provide adequate compensation by oil giant, Seplat Energy.
The community, which claims ownership of the land housing Ohaji South Oil Wells 3 and 4, and a newly identified oil site within the F71 section of Adapalm Estate, has issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding engagement and restitution.
Acting through its legal counsel, George C. Akagha & Co., Ekugba warned that failure by Seplat to address its concerns could lead to disruptions of oil operations in the area. The letter, also sent to the Imo State Government and security agencies, cited Nigerian laws obligating oil firms to compensate and recognize their host communities.
The community claims Seplat continues its activities without proper consultation, and referenced ongoing litigation—Suit No: HOG/14/2014—challenging the company’s presence on the disputed land. Local youth under the Ekugba Restoration Team (ERT) have vowed to resist further site clearing unless traditional protocols are followed and a Memorandum of Understanding signed.
Seplat, in a formal response signed by Ibi-Ada Itotoi, Managing Director of East Onshore Operations, denied wrongdoing, stating its operations are within legally acquired areas of the Adapalm Plantation, leased by the now-defunct East Central State and currently under the Imo State Government.
While Seplat insists it operates in full compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act, Ekugba argues the lease does not extend to mineral rights and fails to meet the PIA’s host community requirements. The community has rejected prior agreements with neighboring communities as non-binding.
With the ultimatum nearing expiration, fears of confrontation are rising, prompting calls for urgent government intervention to avert disruption and ensure justice for the aggrieved community.
