Edo State Government Denounces "Revocation" Notice Affecting Presco PLC, Cites Unauthorized Action
BENIN CITY, NIGERIA - The Edo State Government has issued a strong disclaimer following the publication of a notice in the National Vanguard Newspaper on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, purporting to revoke the Statutory Rights of Occupancy of Presco PLC. The government has unequivocally stated that the notice, titled "Revocation of Statutory Rights of Occupancy Pursuant to Sections 28 and 38," did not originate from the office of Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo nor any authorized body within the state government.
According to a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, the publication was the result of unauthorized actions by the immediate past Managing Director of the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS). The government's investigation revealed that the former MD acted unilaterally, without proper authorization, and in disregard of established procedures.
The statement clarified that the Edo State Government has not revoked Presco PLC’s Statutory Right of Occupancy. Instead, the government had been considering the excision of approximately 20 hectares of land, specifically those containing strategic crude oil wells. This action was deemed necessary due to the constitutional and legal limitations on private land ownership where mineral resources are present.
The government cited the following legal basis for the limited consideration:
1. Section 44(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended): This section vests the ownership and control of all minerals, mineral oils, and natural gas in the Federal Government.
2. Section 1 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021: This act reaffirms the Federal Government's ownership and control of all petroleum resources.
3. Section 28 of the Land Use Act (1978): This section grants the government the power to revoke rights of occupancy for overriding public interest, including matters related to mineral exploitation.
The statement emphasized that, despite the technical considerations, Governor Okpebholo had not approved any revocation, partial or total, in this instance.
The Edo State Government has thus disassociated itself completely from the disputed publication, advising the public, stakeholders, and Presco PLC to disregard the notice in its entirety.
Furthermore, the government has initiated a formal administrative review to address the unauthorized actions of the former EDOGIS Managing Director and to strengthen internal controls. The government also reiterated its commitment to transparent land administration, orderly engagement with investors, and the protection of public interest, particularly in matters concerning national strategic assets like oil and gas.
The statement concluded with an assurance to all stakeholders that due process will continue to guide all land management decisions within Edo State.