A group advocating for environmental justice in Akwa Ibom State, known as Akwa Ibom Oil Producing Community Development Network, has expressed opposition to Shell Petroleum Development Company’s proposed on-shore asset sale. They believe that this move is an attempt by the company to avoid its obligations.
In a letter sent to the Director General of the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission following discussions at their Annual General Meeting in Uyo, the group, AKIPKON, emphasized their concerns. They argue against the sale, citing SPDC’s avoidance of responsibilities such as remediation and compensation for victims of oil spills.
AKIPKON asserts that approving the sale would be unjust as it would allow SPDC to neglect its duty to clean up the polluted environment and compensate those affected by years of oil spills.
The letter, signed by President-General Dr. Ufot Phenson and Secretary Emmanuel Bassey, highlights the organization’s support for the regulatory commission’s stance against the asset sale.
They stress the severe environmental damage caused by SPDC in Akwa Ibom State and argue that the company must not evade its responsibility to address these issues.
AKIPKON calls for the commission to prevent SPDC’s disinvestment plan, ensuring that the company fulfills its obligations to remediate the environment and compensate affected individuals, particularly farmers and fishermen.