Court orders firm, agency to clean up Delta oil spill

A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has mandated Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited and the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency to begin the cleanup process for an oil spill that has severely impacted Uzere Kingdom in Delta State's Isoko South Local Government Area. The ruling was handed down in Suit No. FHC/PH/CS/132/2026, brought forth by Eric Omare Chambers on behalf of the Ovie of Uzere Kingdom, Udogri Isaac I, who represents the Uzere Traditional Council and the entire Uzere community.

Justice Adamu Mohammed stressed the importance of environmental protection and adherence to due process. The court ordered the defendants to clear the affected sites, prevent further environmental harm, and suspend all ongoing oil and gas operations in Uzere Kingdom until the resolution of the motion. During the hearing, the plaintiff's counsel, N.O.

Akporuvweku, highlighted that the court had previously ordered the defendants to address the environmental damage, and the required documents had been delivered. The defendants, represented by O.O. Jarikre and Akomaye, acknowledged receiving the motion and confirmed productive discussions without objections. Justice Mohammed assigned the defendants 14 days to submit an interim compliance report to the court, showing the court's urgency in tackling the ecological damage caused by the oil spill.

Uzere Kingdom, located in Isoko South Local Government Area, is a traditionally significant oil-producing area with two major oil fields, Uzere East and Uzere West, containing around 43 wells that collectively produce approximately 53,000 barrels of oil daily. The court's decision has been celebrated by Uzere residents, who have endured environmental and economic repercussions due to oil spills.

High Chief Odio Lucky, representing the plaintiff, called the ruling a "victory for the Kingdom" and emphasized its vital role in protecting the community's well-being.