A fresh crude oil discovery has sparked disagreement over land ownership and exploration arrangements in Okpe-Isoko community, Delta State.
According to Vanguard, members of the Adhakpor family have rejected a purported land lease agreement involving Sterling Global Limited.
The family alleged that individuals claiming to represent it entered into discussions and agreements without obtaining the necessary authorisation.
In a statement, the family maintained that it had not approved any lease, memorandum of understanding or related arrangement concerning its land.
It warned that agreements entered into by unauthorised persons should not be regarded as binding on the family.
Delta family insists on authorised negotiations
The family explained that its legitimate representatives were selected during a general meeting held on October 4, 2026.
It maintained that only those representatives had the authority to negotiate or sign documents relating to its property.
According to the statement, the arrangement was intended to protect family interests and ensure accountability in transactions involving the newly discovered crude oil.
“This position is intended to ensure transparency, accountability, proper representation, unity, peace,” the family said.
It urged investors and other stakeholders to verify the authority of anyone claiming to represent the family before entering into agreements.
The family also disassociated itself from previous commitments allegedly made without its approval.
The dispute has drawn attention to the importance of land ownership rights and community representation in Nigeria’s oil-producing areas.
However, the report did not establish that Sterling Global Limited had knowingly entered into an unauthorised agreement.
The company’s response to the family’s allegations was not included in the report.
