By Awyetu Asabe Hope
Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL) has intensified cleanup and environmental remediation efforts following an oil spill at its Well 14 facility in Uzere Kingdom, Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The company said it had deployed additional technical resources and expanded engagement with host communities following the containment of the spill, which was reportedly caused by reservoir gas buildup that led to the escape of crude oil.
The cleanup exercise involves collaboration with state authorities, regulatory agencies and community representatives to assess the impact of the incident and develop long-term restoration plans for affected farmlands and water bodies.
Reports from joint investigation visits indicated that the company, government regulators and community representatives participated in assessing the spill, while response teams moved to contain the affected area and recover spilled crude to prevent further environmental damage.
HEOSL also deployed fire trucks, secured the vicinity of Well 14 and evacuated residents living closest to the bubbling crude, according to sources close to the company.
The company has provided initial relief materials to affected communities, with local leaders estimating the value of the support at more than N10m.
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, reportedly confirmed the containment and cleanup efforts during a visit to the affected area.
Oborevwori said the company had engaged with host communities before commencing the operations, adding that he was satisfied with the progress made.
He urged residents not to interpret delays in addressing some of their complaints as a lack of commitment, explaining that established procedures had to be followed.
“Delay is not denial. There are procedures and processes, and that is the reason for any delay,” he said.
The governor said his visit was aimed at assessing the situation, meeting with community representatives and engaging the company on the response.
Meanwhile, HEOSL said it would continue discussions with the Uzere traditional council on broader environmental remediation and compensation after the spill had been fully contained.
Its technical teams are also assessing methane and other hydrocarbon emissions at the site, with the findings expected to guide the wider remediation plan and ensure compliance with national air quality standards.
The company added that specialised foreign technical experts had been deployed to carry out well-control procedures to prevent further leaks.
