We distance ourselves from HEOSL facility's shutdown say Kokori, Orogun Communities Leaders

Oil-producing Communities in Kokori and Orogun, located in Ethiope East and Ughelli North Local Government Areas of Delta State, have disassociated themselves from the recent shutdown of facilities operated by Heritage Energy Operational Service Limited (HEOSL).

In a joint statement issued by Community leaders, Chief Andrew Udjemu and Mr. Ogaga Onovea, the Communities clarified that they were neither involved in nor aware of the protest that led to the disruption of HEOSL’s operations.

The statement emphasized that the leadership and executive members of the oil-producing communities should not be held accountable for any costs or losses arising from the shutdown.

“We, the Presidents General and other executive members of the Kokori and Orogun oil-producing communities, are not responsible for the shutdown and any associated costs or losses. These should not be attributed to our communities,” the leaders declared.

They further stressed that no grievances or protests against HEOSL’s operations had been brought to their attention, reaffirming their dissociation from the incident.

Citing Section 257 of the 2021 Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the leaders reminded stakeholders of the law's provisions regarding responsibility for losses caused by civil unrest.

The section states: “Where in any year, or an act of civil unrest occurs which causes damage to facilities or disrupts operations, the host community shall be responsible for the losses incurred, but only to the extent that such losses are not caused by the Settlor.”

The statement urged HEOSL to identify those responsible for the protest and reiterated that Kokori and Orogun communities were not involved.

“We urge HEOSL to take note of the parties behind the protest. Our Communities are in no way connected to the incident,” the leaders concluded.

The clarification aims to protect the reputation and interests of the oil-producing communities while fostering a constructive relationship with HEOSL