The Odidi Community in Warri South West LGA, Delta State, on Thursday accused Heritage Energy Nigeria Limited of being responsible for the death of a 56-year-old woman, Mrs. Evelyn Ojiukwu.
The deceased reportedly died after slipping on crude oil residue at the community waterfront while returning from a fishing expedition. She allegedly hit her head on wood and started bleeding.
Speaking to newsmen, her son and community spokesman, Chief Terry Ogisi, said his mother had no prior illness before the incident.
He blamed the company’s negligence in cleaning up an oil spill that occurred over six months ago.
“My mother would not have died prematurely if Heritage Energy had expedited the cleanup of this spill. We are deeply concerned about the growing negligence and the poor treatment our community is receiving from Heritage Energy Limited,” he said.
According to him, Mrs. Ojiukwu was rushed to several hospitals. Doctors at Lilly Hospital recommended brain surgery, but she died before the operation.
“This is an injustice against our people. We will not accept it any longer. Heritage Energy must not put business interest above the safety and welfare of the people. We will hold Heritage Energy responsible for my mother’s death,” Chief Ogisi added.
“My mother was not sick before this happened. The spill killed her. We are in mourning. We never expected to bury her at this age. This is too much for us.”
Meanwhile, the community and the bereaved family have called on the Delta State Governor, the Police, and relevant regulatory agencies to investigate the incident and hold Heritage Energy accountable.