Members of the Brumuke Sana Family in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have protested over an unresolved compensation dispute involving land used for an oil and gas facility.

The family, supported by community members, held a peaceful protest last week against Renaissance African Energy Company Limited. The company now operates assets formerly owned by Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited (SPDC).

The protesters accused the company of using their ancestral land without paying what they consider fair compensation. They carried placards calling for payment and recognition of their land rights.

Dispute Over 7,382.805 Square Metres

The dispute concerns about 7,382.805 square metres of land. The Brass Creek Oil and Gas Manifold and Heliport occupies the property.

The facility links the Tunu, Opukushi and Beniseide Flow Stations with the Forcados Terminal in neighbouring Delta State. The family says the land has supported oil operations for years without a settlement of its compensation claim.

Family representatives also alleged that they have not received royalties or other benefits linked to the use of the property.

Family Seeks Government Intervention

Community representatives said they have tried several ways to resolve the dispute. They said they sent petitions to Renaissance Energy, the Bayelsa State Government, the police, the Joint Task Force and other agencies.

Chief Ken Aguna and former community women leader Mrs Butter Felix-Anebi said the petitions have not produced a solution.

The family head, Bonaze Maxwell Brumuke, said the dispute has placed a heavy financial burden on him. The octogenarian has spent years pursuing the matter through petitions and court processes.

According to the family, Julius Berger assessed the land in 1993. They claim that the assessment did not lead to payment of compensation.

Community Leaders Support Land Claim

Traditional leaders from the Peretoru-Gbene Federated Communities have also backed the family’s claim.

Dr Timi Odikeme Okere (Foukeregha IV), the Secretary to the Chiefs Council, Awulu Dumbo, and Chief Edward Ayiba said the community recognises Brumuke as the legitimate owner of the disputed land.

Chief Osadebe Okoun and Chief Tekearede Oyabrade also supported the family’s position.

The community leaders called on Renaissance Energy to meet with the family and address the compensation dispute. They said a settlement would help reduce tension in the oil-producing area.

Land Rights and Infrastructure

The dispute highlights the importance of clear land ownership and fair compensation when companies develop infrastructure on community land.

Land remains a key part of Nigeria’s infrastructure and development system. Oil facilities, roads, housing projects and other developments often depend on access to land.

Clear ownership records can help reduce disputes between landowners, companies and government agencies. Fair compensation can also help communities participate in development without losing their property rights.

For the Brumuke Sana Family, however, the immediate issue remains its claim for compensation over the land occupied by the Brass Creek facility.

As of the time of filing, attempts to obtain a response from Renaissance African Energy Company Limited were unsuccessful.

The family and community leaders are calling for direct talks with the company. They want the long-running dispute resolved through a process that recognises the family’s claim to the land and addresses its compensation concerns.

The case also shows why effective land administration matters to infrastructure development. When ownership and compensation issues remain unresolved, disputes can continue for years and affect both communities and companies operating in the affected areas.

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The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the development of the Agge Deep Sea Port in Bayelsa State, describing the project as a transformative maritime infrastructure initiative capable of driving investment, job creation, and economic growth across the Niger Delta region.

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, said the proposed port remains a strategic priority under the Federal Government’s plan to expand maritime infrastructure and strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy.

According to the minister, the Agge Deep Sea Port aligns with the economic transformation agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at boosting trade, industrialisation, and sustainable development.

Oyetola noted that upon completion, the port will serve as a major maritime gateway in the South-South region, enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global trade while easing pressure on existing seaports.

“The Agge Deep Sea Port project is a critical component of our strategy to expand Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure and strengthen the nation’s competitiveness in regional and international trade. It will significantly contribute to job creation, economic development, and investment inflows into the Niger Delta region,” he said.

The minister disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy is working closely with the Bayelsa State Government and other stakeholders to accelerate implementation of the project.

He explained that the deep-sea port would stimulate economic activities across key sectors including logistics, fisheries, shipbuilding, maritime services, tourism, and transportation.

According to Oyetola, the project is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while attracting both domestic and foreign investments into the region.

He also commended Douye Diri for supporting the project and aligning the state’s development objectives with the Federal Government’s marine and blue economy agenda.

Ministry Targets New Maritime Investments

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has unveiled plans to attract fresh investment into Nigeria’s maritime sector through a strategic partnership with Jaiz Bank Plc.

The collaboration is expected to provide financing for critical maritime infrastructure projects, inland waterways transportation, fisheries, aquaculture, and other strategic blue economy initiatives.

Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Fatima Sugra Tabi’a Mahmood, described the marine and blue economy sector as highly capital-intensive and in need of substantial long-term financing to unlock its full potential.

She revealed that the ministry has explored international funding opportunities, including the assessment of a £1 billion financing facility in the United Kingdom, underscoring the scale of investment required to modernise Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

Mahmood said the ministry remains open to partnerships with financial institutions capable of delivering innovative financing solutions that will support large-scale projects and accelerate growth across Nigeria’s blue economy value chain.

Industry analysts believe the Agge Deep Sea Port project could become a major catalyst for regional development, strengthen Nigeria’s maritime trade capacity, and position the country as a leading player in Africa’s emerging blue economy.

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The Bayelsa State Government has resolved a long-standing land dispute between the Ofoni and Lalagbene communities, calling on both parties to maintain peace and strengthen their relationship.

The intervention was led by the Deputy Governor, Dr Peter Akpe, during a mediation meeting held at Government House in Yenagoa, involving representatives of both communities and Renaissance African Energy Company Limited.

Government Warns Against Unregulated Agreements

Speaking at the meeting, Akpe reiterated that no community should enter into any Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with companies without proper consultation with the state government.

He stressed that such agreements must involve the Office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice to prevent disputes and ensure fairness.

According to him, many communal conflicts in the state stem from poorly structured or undocumented agreements between host communities and companies.

Clarification on Land Ownership

On the disputed land, the deputy governor stated that available records show that the parcel of land where the company’s Location 2 facility is situated belongs to Lalagbene community.

He also noted that Ofoni community retains rights and benefits as the host of Location 1 in the Iseni Oilfield.

Akpe urged both communities to avoid violence and instead pursue peaceful dialogue when conflicts arise.

Call for Peace and Cooperation

The deputy governor emphasised that taking up arms would only worsen tensions and lead to unnecessary destruction of lives and property.

He encouraged both communities to strengthen their engagement with the company and work towards mutual benefits.

Company Provides Historical Context

Officials of Renaissance African Energy Company explained that Location 1 was acquired from Ofoni in 1972, while Location 2 was acquired from Lalagbene in 1973.

The clarification helped establish historical ownership and contributed to the resolution of the dispute.

Communities Accept Resolution

Representatives of both communities expressed appreciation to the state government for its timely intervention.

They also agreed to abide by the resolution and maintain peaceful coexistence moving forward.

The development marks a significant step in addressing communal conflicts tied to land ownership and resource control in the Niger Delta region.

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, wanted in connection with an alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257.

The EFCC’s spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said the funds were provided by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) for Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited.

The public notice reads: “Timipre Sylva, former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources and ex-Governor of Bayelsa State, is wanted by the EFCC over alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257, part of funds injected by NCDMB into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for refinery construction.”

Sylva, 61, hails from Brass Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. The notice follows a Lagos State High Court warrant issued on November 6, 2025.

The EFCC urged anyone with information on Sylva’s whereabouts to contact its offices across the country, nearest police stations, or via 08093322644 or info@efcc.gov.ng.

Details on developments in the case will follow.

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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had earlier predicted intensified seasonal rainfall, raising concerns about flooding, particularly in riverine communities. Though the Federal Ministry of Water Resources has denied the release of water from the dam, affected states say they are not taking any chances.

In Benue State, the Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has intensified flood sensitisation campaigns across the state. According to SEMA’s Information Officer, Tema Ager, the state is acting on high alert despite confirmation from the Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utsev, that there has been no release from Lagdo Dam.

“We have no official report of water release from Cameroon, but we are not waiting to be taken by surprise,” Ager said, adding that awareness jingles have already been rolled out across local radio stations to alert residents.

In Edo State, the Executive Director of the State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency, Ahmed Momoh, said the government has taken preemptive steps to inspect erosion-prone areas in the Edo North axis. He confirmed that while the state has not received any formal notification of water discharge, preparations are underway to manage any spillover effects.

“We remain on standby. Our strategic inspection of gully erosion sites is part of our proactive approach to limit environmental degradation,” Momoh said.

Similarly, in Bayelsa State—which bore the brunt of devastating floods in 2012 and 2022—the Directorate of Flood and Erosion Control confirmed it is on standby. The head of the agency, Walson Omusu, said while there has been no official alert, the state is prepared. He noted that water channels in Yenagoa and other vulnerable areas have already been cleared to reduce the impact of any flooding.

“We are always ready. Even without official notice, our systems are in place,” Omusu stated.

Meanwhile, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has begun distributing relief materials to flood-affected communities in Bayelsa. During a visit to Otuasega and Oruma, NDDC’s Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, said the gesture aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and demonstrates the Commission’s commitment to the region’s well-being.

Represented by Mrs. Chioma Nwakwe, the Deputy Director of Education, Health, and Social Services, Ogbuku noted that the support included school furniture, educational tablets, and household relief items. He said the initiative was carried out in partnership with the Ednest Egerue Foundation.

Foundation founder Susan Ibiama commended the NDDC’s efforts, describing the collaboration as a timely intervention for communities grappling with economic loss due to floods.

Community representatives, including Mr. Innocent Abbey of Otuasega and Mr. Akaribo Lamanya of Ngbiama-Oruma, expressed gratitude, pledging to ensure fair distribution of the materials.

As flood season deepens and with rainfall intensifying, state governments and agencies are urging residents in high-risk areas to remain vigilant and adhere to safety advisories.

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The ceremony, held at the Otuabagi community town hall in Ogbia Local Government Area, marks a major milestone in the decades-long effort to immortalize Oloibiri as the birthplace of Nigeria’s oil industry, where commercial crude production began in 1957.

The multibillion-naira initiative is a collaborative effort between the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Renaissance Africa Energy (formerly Shell Petroleum Development Company), and the Bayelsa State Government.

Designed to serve as both an educational and tourism hub, the OMPRC will comprise a state-of-the-art Oil and Gas Museum featuring interactive digital exhibits and historical artifacts, as well as a Research and Testing Centre offering field training opportunities around an abandoned well.

Speaking at the handover, NCDMB Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe—represented by Director of Corporate Services, Abdulmalik Halilu—described the project as a landmark in Nigeria’s energy and historical preservation efforts. He drew parallels with international examples such as Pennsylvania in the U.S., where similar heritage infrastructure commemorates oil exploration history.

Halilu assured the host community of their inclusion throughout the project and urged local youth to take advantage of upcoming job and training opportunities.

Bayelsa State Chief of Staff, Peter Akpe, called the ceremony a transition from promise to action, lauding the project stakeholders and the Otuabagi community for their patience and resilience.

Julius Berger’s Deputy Regional Manager, Rimon Marisho, pledged the company’s full commitment to delivering a quality project in partnership with local stakeholders.

Ijaw leaders, including Professor Benjamin Okaba of the Ijaw National Congress and Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri of the Ijaw Youth Council, expressed support for the project and promised to safeguard its successful delivery.

Professor Teddy Adias, Vice Chancellor of Federal University, Otuoke, and Chairman of the Stakeholder Committee, hailed the moment as historic, recalling that the idea for the museum was first proposed in 1981 during the administration of President Shehu Shagari.

The project’s funding is shared across stakeholders: PTDF (40%), NCDMB (30%), Renaissance Africa Energy (20%), and the Bayelsa State Government (10%).

With construction now underway, the OMPRC is poised to become a landmark destination celebrating Nigeria’s oil heritage while promoting education, tourism, and research.

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In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, NESREA’s Assistant Director of Press, Mrs. Nwamaka Ejiofor, said the enforcement action was taken against facilities in multiple sectors that failed to comply with Nigeria’s environmental laws.

Violations included failure to conduct mandatory Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), neglecting environmental audits, and operating without functional effluent treatment systems posing serious risks to public health and the environment.

Among the sealed facilities were Rugal Pharmaceutical and China Communications Construction Company in Enugu; China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) in Bayelsa; and Multi Plan Nigeria Ltd in Rivers State, among others.

NESREA Director-General, Prof. Innocent Barikor, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring environmental compliance nationwide. “This action sends a strong message to all operators noncompliance will not be tolerated,” he said.

Barikor urged facility owners to align with national environmental regulations, warning that the agency will continue to clamp down on violators to protect lives and ecosystems.

Earlier in May, NESREA carried out a similar operation in the Federal Capital Territory, sealing 21 noncompliant facilities.

The agency says it remains resolute in enforcing environmental standards to ensure a healthier and more sustainable environment across Nigeria.

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