The Federal High Court in Warri has delivered a landmark judgment in favor of the Benikrukru Community of Gbaramatu Kingdom, ruling against Chevron Nigeria Limited and representatives of the Itsekiri and Omateye communities in a long-standing compensation dispute.
In Suit No: FHC/WR/CS/49/2024, the plaintiffs—Pa. Kwekwewei Onimiyenmene, Pastor Paul Willie, Elder David Kiriodougha, Captain John Abase, Elder Dogood Ogoloru, and Madam Goldcoast Jimmy—sued Chevron and others over compensation payments related to land use. They sought a declaration that the Consent Judgment dated March 12, 1982, which governed payments, had expired and should no longer be used as a basis for compensation.
The plaintiffs also demanded a perpetual injunction restraining Chevron from assessing, determining, or paying compensation based on the expired Consent Judgment.
After hearing arguments from Larry Malemi Esq., counsel to the plaintiffs; K.K. Iheme Esq., representing the 2nd-6th defendants; and A.E. Oghounu Esq., counsel for Chevron, the court ruled in favor of the Ijaw community.
In his judgment, Hon. Justice H. A. Nganjiwa declared that the 1982 Consent Judgment had lapsed and become inoperative, granting the plaintiffs’ request for an injunction against Chevron. The ruling effectively prevents Chevron from making further compensation payments under the outdated agreement, paving the way for fresh negotiations or legal actions regarding new compensation terms.
The decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for oil-related land disputes in the Niger Delta. It also underscores the complex legal battles between oil-producing communities and multinational corporations operating in the region.
Stakeholders, including the Ijaw and Itsekiri communities, Chevron, and the Delta State government, are expected to react to the ruling in the coming days.
