NUPRC clears Eket HCDT of EMOIMEE misconduct allegations

Assam Abia

A mild controversy recently rippled through Eket after a petition by a little-known group, “Concerned Ekid People,” accused the management of the Eket Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) of fraud, opacity and poor accountability.

However, emerging facts show that the allegations were not only baseless but deliberately designed to create needless tension in the community.

In a swift and definitive response, the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC)—the statutory regulator of Host Community Development Trusts—debunked the claims and set the records straight.

Following a comprehensive assessment of all 156 HCDTs nationwide, the commission rated Eket HCDT as the best performing Trust in Nigeria, citing the visibility, impact and transformative value of its projects.

Contrary to the petitioners’ claims, Eket HCDT has consistently demonstrated transparency, accountability and strong governance, with verifiable documentation of all its operations. The Trust maintains clear oversight structures, effective communication channels, and strict compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

A key indicator of this commitment is the Trust’s consistent Stakeholders’ Engagements—an obligation under the PIA. The Eket HCDT recently concluded its fourth round of engagements, providing an open forum for community members, regulators and the Settlor to assess progress, ask questions and make contributions. This openness directly contradicts allegations of secrecy.

During recent project inspection tours, both the Settlor and NUPRC expressed firm satisfaction with the quality and impact of the Trust’s interventions.

From infrastructure to empowerment programmes, the evidence on ground was applauded as both visible and life-changing. These outcomes formed the basis of the Trust’s top national ranking, further solidifying its public credibility.

Eket HCDT has also maintained a culture of accountability by consistently presenting its scorecard to stakeholders. Every project, expenditure and plan is openly shared and reviewed, earning the Trust commendations from community leaders, youth groups, government agencies and development partners.

It is equally important to clarify that Archbishop Helen Esuene did not resign from the Board due to any misconduct. Her exit had no link to corruption or wrongdoing.

Attempts to associate her name with fabricated allegations are misleading. Esuene explained that her increased commitment to ministry work necessitated her resignation to fully prioritise her spiritual calling.

The petition by the so-called “Concerned Ekid People” has since been widely dismissed as unfounded, ill-motivated and lacking any credible evidence. With the regulator’s findings now public, the claims have been rendered entirely without merit.

Community members are therefore encouraged to disregard the petition and continue supporting the Trust as it delivers on its mandate.

Despite distractions, Eket HCDT remains focused on advancing visible, impactful and transformative development in Eket.

With firm oversight from the NUPRC, the Settlor’s commitment and the community’s cooperation, the Trust is poised to sustain its leadership as a model for host community development across Nigeria.