Axxela, an Oil and Gas firm, says it is committed to global best practices that upholds legal processes, community interests, and sustainable development.
Axxela made the clarification while reacting to a protest by the people of Emu-Ebendo Community in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta on Tuesday demanding its exit from the land it acquired in the area through another community.
The company made the clarification in a statement issued by its Corporate Communications Manager, Omolara Shitu, which was made available to newsmen in Asaba on Wednesday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Emu-Ebendo community who spoke through their representatives at the protest had claimed the ownership of the land following a Supreme Court judgement in their favour in 2003 including the portion acquired by Axxela for its businesses in the area.
The Emu-Ebendo community also called on Axxela to approach and negotiate with them to ensure peace and harmony in the community.
READ ALSO:Court remands man, 30, over alleged unlawful possession of firearms
Reacting, Axxela said the land it acquired had legitimate titles, registered deed of assignment with the state governor’s consent in 2024.
“Our attention has been drawn to media reports regarding a community dispute concerning land acquired for a planned gas processing plant in Umuseti, Delta state.
“As a responsible corporate organisation, we wish to clarify the facts and reaffirm our commitment to global best practices that uphold legal processes, community interests, and sustainable development.
“The land in question was acquired following rigorous due diligence and in full compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.
“This, includes extensive consultation with the relevant family houses, engagement with related authorities and adherence to all statutory procedures governing such transactions.
“We have also obtained a registered deed of assignment for which the Governor’s consent was obtained in December 2024, demonstrating our lawful purchase of the land,” Axxela stated.
It said, however, that it was committed to stakeholders engagement and opened to dialogue to ensure peaceful disposition with host communities.
“Axxela places high value on proactive and strategic engagement with host communities.
READ ALSO:UK, Nigeria launch technical working group for creative industries
“Prior to the acquisition, we engaged in extensive discussions with key stakeholders, including family representatives, local leaders and community representatives, to ensure utmost transparency and mutual understanding.
“We remain committed to resolving any perceived community issues through dialogue with anyone who may feel aggrieved in this matter.
READ ALSO:Dr. Daniel Nwogwugwu: Advancing Crisis Communication and Public Engagement in Nigeria
“We strongly discourage the spread of misinformation that could escalate tensions or misrepresent our brand’s integrity,” it said.
It urged the public and media to support efforts to ensure peaceful operations.
According to the firm, the focus is on development and economic growth and the planned gas processing facility is a strategic investment that will bring immense benefits to the community, including job creation, local business opportunities, and infrastructure development.
“The facility will also foster long-term partnerships that drive shared prosperity.”
