The Federal High Court in Warri, Delta State, has dismissed a lawsuit challenging parts of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). As a result, the court reaffirmed the law’s authority over Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
In its judgment delivered on December 12, 2025, the court rejected all claims filed by the Incorporated Trustees of the Centre for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Crusade (CHURAC). The group had sought to nullify sections of the PIA that place responsibility on host communities for vandalism and sabotage of petroleum facilities.
According to CHURAC, the provisions violate the Constitution and unfairly target host communities. In addition, the group argued that the law denies affected communities the right to a fair hearing. Mrs B. E. Oghenekaro represented the plaintiff in court.
Meanwhile, the Attorney-General of the Federation, listed as the first defendant, appeared through K. K. Akpule. Dr Abiodun Adesanya, alongside A. A. Affe, represented the President of the Senate, named as the second defendant. However, no counsel appeared for the third defendant.
Court Examines Claims, Dismisses Case
At the early stage of proceedings, the defendants raised a preliminary objection. They argued that CHURAC lacked the legal standing to sue on behalf of host communities. Nevertheless, the court overruled the objection and moved on to the substance of the case.
After reviewing the arguments, the court found no merit in the claims. It held that the plaintiff failed to prove that the disputed sections were unconstitutional or discriminatory. Furthermore, the court ruled that the provisions did not breach the right to a fair hearing.
The court also held that the National Assembly acted within its constitutional powers when it enacted the PIA. Importantly, it noted that the host community provisions aim to balance the interests of communities, operators, and the state.
Consequently, the court dismissed all reliefs sought by CHURAC. In conclusion, it affirmed the validity and enforceability of the relevant provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act.
