Mosogar Kingdom Stages Protest at Seplat Energy Site

Residents of five communities in Mosogar Kingdom, Delta State, held a peaceful protest at a Seplat Energy facility, accusing the company of commencing a “Ring” project in the Sakpoba Forest Reserve without proper consultation. The protesters, carrying placards, specifically stated that their traditional ruler and youth leaders were excluded from discussions, and they demanded that all project-related engagement must formally include Mosogar stakeholders. They also alleged that Seplat has been engaging only with Edo State authorities, effectively sidelining the Delta State communities with claims to the land.

The demonstration was further fueled by claims that Seplat disregarded a court order. Protest leaders stated that a Magistrate’s Court in Mosogar had granted a stay of execution on a related matter, yet installation work continued, which they described as disrespectful to both the community and the judicial process. Despite these grievances, leaders emphasized that the protest remained peaceful, with participants stressing their desire for justice and fair negotiation over conflict.

This dispute highlights a broader challenge in the Niger Delta, where oil operations frequently intersect with complex issues of land ownership and host community status. For the protesting communities, official recognition as a host community is crucial as it directly impacts their access to jobs, development projects, and compensation linked to the oil operations. The situation underscores the tension that can arise when engagement protocols are perceived to be ignored.

The protesters have called on Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure fair treatment for all affected communities. While Seplat could not be reached for comment, community leaders have urged the company to halt work and return to dialogue. Currently, calm prevails at the site, but the outcome of government and corporate responses will determine if the issue is resolved peacefully or escalates into a larger inter-community conflict.