ExxonMobil has refuted claims of being responsible for the recent oil spill in the Ibeno Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, which affected over 27 coastal communities.
The village head of Mkpanah, Denis Essenem, had attributed the spill to ExxonMobil, stating that the company is the only major oil operator in the area. However, ExxonMobil’s Regional Communications Manager, Ogechukwu Udeagha, denied any involvement, stating that there has been no release of oil from their facilities.
A preliminary report from the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency did not identify any Mobil facility as a potential source of the spill. ExxonMobil emphasized that environmental protection and community safety remain top priorities in their operations.
The denial comes amidst protests from affected communities and accusations of ExxonMobil’s alleged history of “flimsy excuses” and “lies” regarding oil spills in the area.
