SHELL EXPLORATION AND PRODUCTION COMPANY LIMITEDVs NATIONAL OIL DETECTION AND RESPONSE AGENCY (NOSDRA)1: CASE COMMENT

Abstract

The  International Oil Companies (1OCs) had over the  yearsnot only  questioned but challenged the  authority and powers  of  National  Oil  Spill  Detection  and  Response  Agency  (NOSDRA)  to  monitor,  supervise  and  regulate operations relating to the oil and gas industry. As a result, the IOCs have consistently flouted orignored directives by  NOSDRA  in  oil  spill  situations  especially  when  it  has  to  do  with  imposition  of  penalty/fine  or  compensation payable. They always had their way. The objectives of this case review were to determine whether NOSDRA has the authority to assess damage in oil spill situation and impose fine on the oil spiller; and, whether NOSDRA acting in such  a  manner  amounted  to  ultra  vires  its  statutory  powers  and  therefore,  an  encroachment  on  the  powers  of  the Federal High Court.  Doctrinal research methodology was used and judgment on the case obtained by visiting law chambers.  Findings  show  that  NOSDRA  has  the  authority  to  direct  clean-up  operation  in  oil  spill  cases,  assess damage to ecology and impose fine or compensation payable on the oil spiller.It recommended a synergy between NOSDRA and the IOCs towards oil spill incidents to enable conscientious handling of the situation for the benefit of all