The Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has stepped in to mediate between Sterling Oil Exploration & Energy Production Company (SEEPCO) and host communities in Ogbaru Local Government Area, Anambra State, over unresolved issues related to oil exploration.
The mediation was led by the Investment Monitoring Committee of the Commission during a crucial meeting at its headquarters in Abuja. Speaking at the engagement, Hon. Enefe, a commissioner in the committee, said the meeting was convened to address several complaints from host communities who accused SEEPCO of neglecting its corporate social responsibility (CSR).
He stressed that resolving the issues was important because unrest in oil-producing communities can negatively affect the nation’s revenue. “When there’s peace and fairness, revenue generation becomes safer and more predictable,” he noted.
During the session, SEEPCO’s representative, Mr. Rajender Bhangara, was asked about the company’s compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)—specifically, whether a Host Community Development Trust had been established, contributions made, and if infrastructure or environmental projects were implemented.
Other concerns raised included:
Lack of needs assessment for communities
Gas flaring activities in Ogbaru and related penalties
The absence of a local flow station in Anambra
Status of signed MoUs, job creation, and scholarships
Details of gas vs. crude oil production volumes
Commissioner Barr. Mathew Aruviere Egharhevwa, representing Delta State, also asked SEEPCO to submit a breakdown of exploration data and evidence of social development.
In their response, community leaders appreciated the Commission’s intervention. Mr. Patrick Chukwudi from Ogwu Ikpele stressed that the communities want development—not just promises. Hon. Vitalis Ekweanua from Ogwu Aniocha said the communities are open to dialogue and want a fair partnership with SEEPCO.
Responding, Mr. Bhangara thanked RMAFC for the opportunity and assured that the company would return with its technical and operations teams to provide full responses, including gas flaring data and environmental records. He also explained that SEEPCO’s operations in OML 143 are linked to infrastructure in Delta State for evacuation and metering.
The session ended with an agreement for continued engagement, with RMAFC facilitating future meetings to resolve all pending issues.
