Recent testaments emanating from the host communities in which the operator of OML 30 Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL), currently operates have confirmed buoyed-up activities geared at comprehensive environmental remediation and clean-up activities in Uzere Kingdom, Isoko South Local Government Area, following the containment of the recent oil spill at the Well 14 facility.
Sources close to the company confirmed that it had deployed enhanced technical strategies and intensified community engagement to address the environmental impact of reservoir gas buildup and the subsequent escape of crude oil.
In addition to its ongoing cleanup operations, Heritage Energy is working closely with state authorities, regulatory agencies and host communities to provide medical outreach services and relief materials while ensuring the long-term restoration of affected farmlands and water bodies.
Reports from Joint Investigation Visits (JIV) also indicated the active participation of statutory government regulatory agencies, the oil company and community representatives in the spill response. Response teams worked urgently to contain the affected area and recover spilled crude to prevent further environmental damage.
The company was also said to have deployed fire trucks, secured the immediate vicinity of Well 14 and evacuated residents living closest to the bubbling crude as part of measures to protect lives and property.
Heritage Energy has reportedly provided initial palliatives to the affected host communities, with local leaders estimating the value of the first tranche at over ₦10 million. Distribution of food items and other relief materials to affected areas is still ongoing.
Confirming the report, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, during his visit to the area, said the company had engaged with host communities before commencing containment and cleanup operations.
The governor expressed satisfaction with the cleanup exercise, noting that HEOSL had initiated containment and recovery operations, with cleanup activities ongoing.
He cautioned residents against interpreting delays in addressing some of their complaints as a lack of commitment, stressing that established procedures must be followed.
“Delay is not denial. There are procedures and processes, and that is the reason for any delay. I am here with the Commissioners for Oil and Gas, Environment and Youth Development, Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, to see things for ourselves, meet with the host community and engage with the company,” he said.
Heritage Energy’s grassroots interventions, including the distribution of relief materials, engagement of volunteer community leaders and efforts to repair electricity infrastructure, underscore the importance of practical measures in addressing the challenges confronting riverine communities.
The company has also committed to maintaining structured dialogue with the Uzere traditional council on broader environmental remediation and eventual compensation after the spill has been fully contained.
As part of its stated commitment to environmental transparency and greenhouse gas reduction targets, Heritage Energy is also addressing potential air-quality impacts resulting from the incident.
Its technical teams are reportedly conducting ongoing assessments of methane and other hydrocarbon emissions at the site, with the resulting data being incorporated into the broader environmental remediation plan to ensure compliance with national air quality standards.
Industry experts say the company prioritises the safety of its host communities and the preservation of the local environment.
Specialised foreign technical experts are still on the ground, according to reports, to execute advanced well-control procedures and prevent further leaks.
