The Supreme Court in London has begun hearing a case that will decide whether nearly 30,000 Nigerians can seek compensation from the energy giant Shell for land damage caused by an oil spill in 2011. The spill caused significant harm to coastal communities in Bayelsa and Delta State, according to residents.
A previous decision by London’s Court of Appeal said the case was brought too late after the leak occurred. Under English law, a complainant may sue for property harm no more than six years after the alleged incident.
The Shell oil spill occurred approximately 120 kilometres off the coast of Nigeria and continued several hours before the pipeline was closed and the oil ceased flowing.
At least 40,000 barrels of oil leaked into the water, making it one of Nigeria’s largest spills ever.
The Nigerian communities contend that the oil destroyed their shoreline and has caused widespread damage to their land and water supply, and that they should be allowed to seek compensation from Shell. A decision is not anticipated for several months.
