Xenergi has denied claims that it encroached on land belonging to Adelabu in the Oluji area of Delta State.
A statement said to have been signed by a spokesperson of the Umuseti Community said the land was purchased by Axxela, alleging that Xenergi once tried to claim ownership of a piece of land in 2014.
But Xenergi refuted all claims of encroachment or community disruption. Its spokesperson, Emmanuel Akpe, had stated that the land in question, located in the Oluji area, has been under the ownership and possession of the Umu-Mgbor family of Umuseti for generations, with a long history of agricultural and economic activities, before Axxela arrived in 2024 to buy the land.
Akpe said Axxela’s operations will significantly curb gas flaring, alleging that some protests on the land by Emu Ebendo were a calculated effort by Xenergi to monopolise gas supply in the region, using Emu Ebendo as a proxy in what is essentially a trade war.
However, the management of Xenergi Limited countered the claims, saying it has taken notice of a statement from Axxela Limited with allegations that directly infer that Xenergi is involved in a land dispute between Axxela and its host communities in Delta State.
“Xenergi Limited categorically refutes any claims suggesting its involvement in land encroachment or community disruption. Thus, asserting in the statement that Xenergi is making a calculated effort “to monopolise gas supply in the region, using Emu Ebendo as a proxy in what is essentially a trade war” is most unfortunate as we remain a focused commercial entity and representing any of the communities in the dispute,” it said in a statement.
Xenergi maintained that up till this moment, it had maintained years of healthy and peaceful coexistence with its host communities, leading to optimised field operations with minimal social or security disruptions.
It stated, “This has been possible through our commitment to the peaceful and lawful acquisition of land from our host communities.
“Our operations are based on meticulously structured public-private partnerships and collaborative community arrangements designed to drive infrastructure growth, economic empowerment, and sustainable development for the people of Delta State. Our land acquisition processes also adhere strictly to legal and regulatory frameworks, with the full participation and consent of key stakeholders,” it explained.
Xenergi firmly believes that disputes of this nature should be addressed through dialogue, legal channels, and respect for institutional processes.
The statement further read, “We are committed to any process that would lead to harmonious resolutions and bring all parties into collaboration in delivering the government’s aspirations in the gas industry as captured in the Decade of Gas programme.
“Therefore, we call on all relevant authorities and stakeholders to intervene and restore peace, mutual trust, and stability in our host communities. We call for development that is rooted in fairness, respect for lawful ownership, and genuine community engagement.
“Xenergi remains committed to working collaboratively with community leaders, authorities, and stakeholders to ensure a peaceful resolution. Our dedication to sustainable development, community empowerment, and fostering progress through lawful and ethical means remains unwavering.
“We urge all parties to cease all altercations and disruptive actions in order to create congenial grounds for resolution, as the future of Delta State depends on sustainable, transparent, and fair principles that we will continue to uphold.”