The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has taken legal action against the federal government and oil companies over the controversial transfer of oil assets involving Nigerian Agip Oil Company Limited, Eni Societa Per Azioni, and Oando PLC.

In a suit filed before the Federal High Court in Lagos (FHC/L/CS/850/25), HEDA is challenging the legality of the deal, claiming it violates several provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 and key environmental regulations.

“This suit is about more than just a corporate deal; it’s about the integrity of our regulatory systems and the future of environmental governance in Nigeria,” said HEDA chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju.

HEDA listed the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Attorney General, Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources among the defendants.

According to Suraju, the case seeks to ensure that oil licence transfers and divestments are done lawfully, especially with rising concerns about environmental impact. “We cannot continue to allow powerful interests to bypass laws meant to protect citizens, the environment, the economy, and the integrity of the country,” he said.

The organisation is asking the court to declare the divestment invalid, nullify any ministerial approvals, and issue an injunction stopping government agencies from recognising or approving the transaction.

It alleges the transaction failed to comply with statutory regulations, including the 2021 Guidelines for Minister’s Consent, 2022 Upstream Petroleum Environmental Regulations, and 2023 Gas Flaring and Methane Emissions Regulations.

“This is a test of the government’s willingness to enforce the PIA and ensure transparency in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry,” Suraju added.

HEDA said the lawsuit is a step toward setting a legal precedent for responsible oil asset transfers that prioritise legal compliance and environmental justice.