Fisherman seeks Chevron’s compensation after boat sinks in Delta

Legal representatives for Mr. Taiwo Aiyedatiwa, a fisherman from Sumoge Community in Escravos, Delta State, are demanding compensation from Chevron Nigeria Ltd (CNL) following an incident involving a Chevron patrol vessel.

F.O. Omiunu, representing Mr. Aiyedatiwa, claimed, in a letter that Chevron’s crew acted negligently, resulting in the sinking of Mr. Taiwo’s fishing boat and his loss of equipment.

According to the letter, dated September 26, 2024, the incident took place on September 17 when Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s worker, Mr. Seun, was casting a fishing net in the Okan Field area at approximately 8:00 a.m.

“Suddenly, a patrol boat, CARACAL by name. pulled down our client’s boat due to the wave and closeness,” Omiunu wrote to Chevron’s Manager of PGDA, Mr. Momodu Rilwanu.

The wave reportedly caused the boat, along with a 40HP Yamaha engine, a 100-meter fishing net, and a can of fuel, to submerge.

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Despite the damages, Mr. Seun was safely rescued by the crew aboard the Caracal, but the fishing boat and its accessories were lost to the waters.

Omiunu emphasised, in the letter, that “there was no death apart from the sunk boat and other things, aforementioned,” but added that the material loss is significant for Mr. Taiwo, who relies on the boat as his primary source of income.

The letter outlined that Chevron’s workers could have acted more cautiously, suggesting that they “were not diligent at all” given that Mr. Seun’s boat was visible from afar.

Omiunu contended that Chevron should have ensured greater care in the handling of the Caracal patrol vessel in proximity to Mr. Seun’s small fishing boat.

Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s legal representative is urging Chevron to “do the needful by rehabilitating our client,” underscoring that the fisherman’s livelihood depends on his now-lost boat and equipment.

The law firm contended that Chevron should be responsible for restoring Mr. Taiwo’s ability to work and cover his losses from the accident.

Omiunu further cautioned Chevron that if no reparations are offered, they will have “no other option than to resort to litigation.”

To support their claims, the letter included photographs and video footage of the incident at the scene.

As Mr. Aiyedatiwa’s legal team awaits Chevron’s response, the matter is poised to escalate if the energy company does not meet the demands set forth.

However, as of October 23, 2024 confirming non-response from CNL, Mr Aiyedatiwa’s legal representative forwarded another reminder to CNL to do the needful failure of which it will seek redress in the court of law.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE