Delta Host Communities Threaten to Shut Oil Operations Over ₦2.4bn PIA Shortfall

We have waited nearly two years for Sterling Global Oil and NEPL to operationalise the Petroleum Industry Act in OML 26. Chapter 3 of the Act requires 3% of yearly operating expenditure to fund community development through the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT). In October 2025, the settlor paid a remittance short by ₦2.4 billion. Despite our petitions and a tripartite meeting with the upstream regulator in April 2026, no resolution followed. The company claims the funds were used for "special intervention projects" before the PIA, but this contradicts the law. We have lived without electricity and basic amenities for too long. The HCDT board is ready but lacks funds. We call on the regulator and relevant agencies to demand full payment of the outstanding amount. If this injustice continues, we will mobilise our people to shut down oil operations in OML 26. Oil should bring development, not oppression. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.

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