Ondo Communities Accuse Chevron of Fresh Oil Spill in Ilaje, Demand Urgent Cleanup and Compensation

By Myra Chinonso, Senior Reporter, SpringnewsNG Media Limited
July 30, 2025

Residents of Ilaje Local Government Area in Ondo State have accused Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) of causing a fresh oil spill at its Berthing Operational Platform (BOP) in the company’s western operations area, sparking outrage among coastal communities and environmental advocacy groups.

The alleged spill, which community members say began earlier this week, has reportedly polluted rivers and farmlands, threatening the livelihoods of fishermen and farmers in the riverine communities of Mese, Awoye, Gbakura, Aiyetoro, Ilowo, and other settlements under the Ugbo Kingdom.

Leaders of the affected communities, alongside environmental groups such as Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN) and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), issued a joint statement on Wednesday accusing Chevron of negligence and demanding immediate intervention.

Communities Cry Out Over Devastation

According to local fishermen, oil slicks were first noticed near a location called “Single Pole Ikorigho” close to the Ororo Field, where Chevron operates. Residents said the contamination has already disrupted fishing activities, killed fish, and rendered water unsafe for use.

“Our people are suffering again because of oil. The water we fish from and the land we farm on are now polluted,” said Chief Samuel Ehinmowo, a community leader in Awoye. “We have reported this to authorities several times, but nothing changes. This is our only source of livelihood, and now it is destroyed.”

Residents also reported cases of skin irritation and stomach-related illnesses since the appearance of the spill, raising fears of long-term health risks.

NGOs and Local Leaders Demand Action

The advocacy groups called for:

1. Immediate containment of the spill and cleanup of affected areas.
2. Independent environmental and health impact assessments to ascertain the extent of damage.
3. Adequate compensation for affected communities in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) provisions.
4. Long-term environmental restoration to protect marine life and farmlands.

“Oil companies cannot continue to destroy the environment without accountability. This is an environmental injustice that must stop,” said Akinbode Oluwafemi, Executive Director of CAPPA.

Government Promises Investigation

The House of Representatives Committee on Host Communities, which recently visited the area, promised to hold Chevron accountable if found liable. Committee Chairman Hon. Femi Adebanjo said the National Assembly will ensure that the affected communities receive compensation and that operators adhere to environmental standards.

“The PIA mandates oil companies to prioritize environmental safety and host community development. We will not hesitate to enforce the law,” Adebanjo stated.

Historical Context

Ilaje communities in Ondo State have long suffered the impacts of oil exploration, with major spills recorded in 1998, 2005, and 2018, causing extensive damage to aquatic life and local economies. Residents say they are yet to recover fully from previous disasters before facing another spill in 2025.

As of press time, Chevron Nigeria Limited had not issued an official statement regarding the latest allegations.