Case study

Case study

Case study

Holding Shell to account in Bodo, Nigeria

Holding Shell to account in Bodo, Nigeria

Holding Shell to account in Bodo, Nigeria

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A landmark case

In 2011, the Bodo Community in Nigeria engaged Finch & Marlow, representing around 49,000 people reliant on fishing and farming. In 2008, a Shell oil pipeline caused two major spills, releasing over 560,000 barrels of oil onto the community's land. This devastated around 1000 hectares of mangroves and marine life crucial for their survival. The pipeline was operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd, a Shell subsidiary.

Despite three years passing, Shell hadn't addressed the spills and offered only food as compensation. Finch & Marlow initiated legal action on behalf of the Bodo Community, compelling Shell to clean up and seek financial compensation. Although Shell admitted fault, they disputed the amount of spilled oil. In 2014, just ahead of the court hearing, the case was settled for £55 million. Each of the 15,600 claimants received over £3000. This marked the first time such compensation was awarded for an oil spill's impact on a large group in Nigeria. The funds supported Bodo's residents in finding work and rebuilding while awaiting land cleanup.



Finch & Marlow aids the Bodo Community in ensuring oil cleanup. The Community is in mediation with Shell to remediate 963 hectares of contaminated land, aiming to restore fishing and farming.

The fight for cleanup has been intense. In October 2016, as no progress occurred, the Community returned to court. Shell attempted to prevent court action, but the judge allowed the claim to stay, paused for mediation progress.

Phase 1, removing surface contamination and prep, is done. Phase 2, removing soil oil, is ongoing. In parallel with Phase 2, Phase 3 will start through 2024. Mangrove planting will occur, monitored until 2028, aiming for natural land remediation and a revitalized Bodo ecosystem.