Nigeria’s Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission has firmly denied reports suggesting it has reallocated disputed oil wells among oil-producing states. The commission described circulating media claims as premature and speculative.
Background to the Dispute
The controversy stems from ongoing efforts by an Inter-Agency Technical Committee. This committee involves RMAFC, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, and National Boundary Commission. Verification fieldwork from September to December 2025 covered states including Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Imo, Cross River, Bayelsa, Edo, Ondo, and Delta. Methods included physical visits, drone surveys, and deep offshore inspections.
These efforts followed Supreme Court rulings, such as Rivers versus Imo on Soku wells. They also addressed new fields sparking inter-state claims for 13 per cent derivation revenue.
Recent Developments
RMAFC Chairman Dr Mohammed Shehu flagged off coordinate plotting on 26 January 2026. The sessions lasted until 30 January and urged state participation for acceptable outcomes. On 13 February 2026, the commission received only a draft report from the committee. This draft was immediately sent to the relevant agencies for review.
No final decisions have been made. Internal tripartite committees will scrutinise inputs before plenary deliberation. The outcome will go to thee President and the Attorney-General.
Official Position and Next Steps
Dr Shehu emphasised RMAFC’s commitment to transparency, equity, and due process. He warned against misinformation that could fuel confusion. The commission called on the public, stakeholders, and media to disregard unofficial reports. Everyone should await formal communication post-review.
