I am Dr. Innocent Bariate Barikor, Director-General of NESREA, responsible for monitoring environmental compliance in Niger Delta oil and gas operations and reporting findings to the Presidency. My recent investigations identified significant violations involving four major oil-producing companies; Shell, Mobile, Elf and Chevron.
The four companies were assessed penalties totaling US$1.2Billion, with potential revocation of their operating licences for non-compliance. Following their appeals for a reduction or waiver, the Federal Government reviewed their requests and reduced the applicable fines to US$800,000,000.
The companies have since settled the revised penalties with the Ministry of Environment and indicated an intention to provide a US$50,000,000 compensation in recognition of my role. However, as a senior public official, I must comply with the applicable Code of Conduct and cannot operate a foreign bank account or receive such funds directly.
I therefore seek your assistance in identifying a resourceful and transparent mechanism through which the gratification can be claimed without any traces to me. Any proposed arrangement should be properly documented and, where required, discussed with a financial facilitator without mentioning names; so that all parties are adequately protected and the transaction is handled through the proper channels.
I would appreciate your guidance and cooperation in resolving this matter in a manner that is fully compliant with existing financial regulations.
Best regards,
Dr. Innocent Bariate Barikor Director General NESREA.