A group of homeowners in Ilorin are demanding a colossal ₦160 billion in compensation from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) following the demolition of their properties in 2018. The residents claim that 976 structures were razed to the ground by military engineers acting on behalf of the oil giant to clear a pipeline right-of-way.
The properties, situated along Pipeline and Tanke Roads, were flattened to make way for the energy company's infrastructure. Despite a 2019 ruling by the House of Representatives Public Petitions Committee ordering the NNPC to assess the damage and negotiate with the victims, the oil company has allegedly refused to engage.
Tope Ajetumobi, spokesperson for the affected residents, accused the NNPC of "contemptuous disregard" for the parliamentary decision.
“Out of 17 invitations given to the NNPCL, only three were honoured including the forceful inspection that took place on January 24, 2023, Ajetumobi said.
The group is now calling on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and ensure they receive the compensation they believe is rightfully theirs.