The Edo State Government has clarified that the recently published notice regarding the revocation of the Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) of Presco Plc is inaccurate, assuring the public and stakeholders that the company’s land rights remain intact.
In a statement, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Fred Itua, explained that the published revocation notice did not follow proper administrative channels and misrepresented the actual land area under consideration. The Edo State Government confirmed that only about 20 hectares—encompassing strategic crude oil wells—were technically under review for excision.
“This excision became necessary because no individual or company can lawfully exercise proprietary rights over land containing mineral resources, which are vested exclusively in the Federal Government,” the statement clarified.
Citing Section 44(3) of the 1999 Constitution, Section 1 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, and Section 28 of the Land Use Act (1978), the government emphasised its legal authority to manage land for overriding public interest, particularly for mineral exploitation.
The statement reassured stakeholders that Presco Plc’s Statutory Right of Occupancy remains valid and urged the public to disregard the earlier notice. Governor Okpebholo has also initiated a formal administrative review to tighten internal controls and prevent similar procedural lapses in the future.
The Edo State Government reiterated its commitment to transparent land administration, orderly engagement with investors, and safeguarding public interest in matters concerning strategic national assets such as oil and gas.
