RMAFC Restarts Verification of Disputed Oil Wells

The Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has reopened the verification process for disputed oil and gas wells after states raised concerns about an earlier exercise that determined the sharing of the 13 percent derivation revenue. RMAFC discarded the previous draft verification report due to claims and complaints, particularly regarding the coordinates and locations of disputed and newly drilled wells.

This decision was announced in a statement by Maryam Umar-Yusuf, Head of Information and Public Relations Unit, following the inauguration of a reconstituted Inter-Agency Technical Committee. Dr Mohammed Shehu, Chairman of RMAFC, stated that the verification is essential for equitable distribution of derivation revenue, as the location of producing assets affects which states receive funds.

The committee is tasked with verifying coordinates and ensuring they are accurately plotted on approved maps, considering relevant court decisions and conducting physical field verifications where necessary. RMAFC has implemented a two-tier structure for the exercise to enhance technical scrutiny and accountability.