The coalition of Nigerian and international civil society organisations has criticised the repeated absence of representatives from the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) in an ongoing oil pollution case at the Federal High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, warning that it could undermine justice.
In a letter addressed to the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, the groups described the pattern as troubling and called for urgent intervention to ensure consistent legal representation in the case.
The suit, filed by King Bubaraiye Dakolo, traditional ruler of Ekpetiama Kingdom, is against Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria and its parent entities over alleged environmental pollution affecting thousands of residents in the Niger Delta.
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According to the coalition, the latest hearing on March 18, 2026, was stalled due to the absence of AGF representatives, marking the sixth adjournment since proceedings began in June 2025. They noted that most delays have been linked to the failure of government counsel or relevant agencies to appear in court.
Describing the situation as a classic case of “justice delayed, justice denied,” the groups warned that continued delays could erode public confidence and attract international scrutiny over Nigeria’s commitment to environmental justice and accountability.
With the next hearing scheduled for May 6, 2026, the coalition urged the AGF’s office to take immediate steps to ensure full participation in the proceedings. They also signalled plans to closely monitor the case and keep both local and international stakeholders informed of developments.
