Edo State Government has disowned a newspaper publication claiming that the statutory rights of occupancy belonging to Presco Plc have been revoked.
Gatekeepers News reports that the notice, which appeared on page 33 of the National Vanguard of November 26, 2025, alleged a revocation carried out under Sections 28 and 38 of the Land Use Act.
In a statement on Wednesday by Umar Musa Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government, the government said the publication did not originate from Governor Monday Okpebholo or any authorised agency of the state. According to the statement, the former Managing Director of the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS) acted without approval and disregarded established procedures, including the actual size of land under review.
The government clarified that Presco Plc’s Statutory Right of Occupancy has not been revoked. It explained that only an excision of about 20 hectares—covering land with strategic crude oil wells—was being technically considered, noting that no private entity can legally claim ownership of land containing mineral resources, which are vested in the Federal Government by law.
Citing Section 44(3) of the 1999 Constitution and Section 1 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, the government said mineral resources fall under exclusive federal control. It added that although Section 28 of the Land Use Act allows revocation for overriding public interest, no such approval was issued in this case.
The state advised the public and Presco Plc to disregard the publication entirely, adding that an administrative review has commenced to address the former EDOGIS MD’s unauthorised actions and to strengthen internal control measures.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to transparent land administration, investor engagement, and the protection of public interest, especially regarding national strategic assets.
