Amidst a devastating incident involving the capsizing of the Majestic oil rig in Delta State, Seplat Energy finds itself entangled in a complex web of ownership disputes and regulatory concerns. As the aftermath of the tragedy unfolds, questions of ownership, legality, and accountability take center stage, overshadowing the tragic loss of a British national and the missing status of three crew members.
Ownership and Accountability
Seplat Energy, the operator of the Seplat/NNPC joint venture, has found itself facing allegations of ownership of the Majestic oil rig. However, in a swift response, the company clarified that the rig was owned by Depthwize Nigeria Limited, a contractor engaged by Seplat. The incident’s complexities have deepened, with Seplat’s clarification highlighting the critical role of clear ownership lines, particularly in high-risk sectors such as the oil industry.
A Tragedy Unveils Illegality
The Majestic oil rig’s tragic capsizing has cast a spotlight on its operational history. The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) revealed that the rig had been operating on Nigerian waters since 2016 without obtaining the necessary approvals from the agency. This revelation underscores the regulatory lapses and raises questions about how such illegal operations could persist for years.
Search and Rescue Amidst Confusion
The aftermath of the incident has left families, authorities, and the public grappling with uncertainty. Three crew members remain missing, and the search and rescue efforts continue. Amidst the confusion, Seplat Energy and Depthwize Nigeria Limited are collaborating to locate the missing individuals. Tragically, a British national has been confirmed as the single recorded fatality, adding a somber dimension to the unfolding tragedy.
