By IN an exclusive report, a legal representative has formally approached Chevron Nigeria Ltd (CNL), on behalf of Mr. Taiwo Aiyedatiwa of Sumoge Community in Escravos, Delta State, following an incident where Mr. Taiwo’s fishing boat reportedly sank due to the proximity of a Chevron patrol vessel.
The letter, authored by F.O. Omiunu, of F.O. Omiunu & Co., claimed Chevron’s workers failed to exercise necessary caution, leading to damages and a potential legal dispute.
The incident in question occurred on September 17, 2024, at around 8:00 a.m., when Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s worker, identified as Mr. Seun, was fishing at Okan Field.
Mr Seun after he was rescued by the Chevron boat crew members
“Our client’s worker, Mr. Seun, was casting net at Okan Field areas…when suddenly a patrol boat, CARACAL by name, that was working for your company Chevron Nig. Ltd, pulled down our client’s boat due to the wave and closeness of the Caracal patrol boat,” reads the letter sent to Chevron’s Manager of PGDA, Mr. Momodu Rilwanu.
The letter explained that the resulting wave, generated by Chevron’s Caracal patrol boat, caused Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s boat to sink, along with its 40HP Yamaha engine, a 100-meter fishing net, and additional supplies.
Mr Seun’s fishing boat submerged in the sea
“The boat sank into the sea,” stated Omiunu, though he noted that Mr. Seun was ultimately rescued by the Caracal crew.
The letter took issue with Chevron’s actions, asserting that “our findings show that your workers were not diligent at all.”
According to Omiunu, Chevron’s team had a clear view of Mr. Seun’s boat and should have exercised “caution…as their watchword.”
The law firm argues that Chevron bears responsibility for the incident due to their perceived lack of diligence.
Mr Seun being tossed by the waves while Chevron staff aboard patrol boat, CARACAL, make efforts to rescue him
Mr. Aiyedatiwa, who relies on the fishing boat for his livelihood, is seeking rehabilitation from Chevron to cover the losses incurred in the incident.
“It is on this premise that we write…to do the needful by rehabilitating our client,” wrote Omiunu, stressing that the request is based on Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s total dependence on the boat for his income.
Omiunu’s letter further warned Chevron of potential litigation if the matter is not addressed. “Take note: that failure to adhere to this write-up, we have no other option than to resort to litigation in the appropriate court,” the firm cautions.
Attached to the correspondence are photographs and video footage intended to provide evidence of the incident at the scene.
While the matter awaits Chevron’s response, Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s legal team has forwarded a reminder to the oil coy for a redress or prepares for potential court proceedings if an amicable resolution cannot be reached.
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