By SUNTV Global Channel | June 8, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force has commenced an investigation into allegations of financial mismanagement and diversion of billions of naira meant for the development of the Ogulagha Kingdom in Delta State, inviting former community chairman, John Babapere, popularly known as “John Bull,” for questioning.
The investigation follows growing concerns from members of the Ogulagha Kingdom over the management of funds allocated through the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
According to reports, the controversy revolves around billions of naira and millions of dollars reportedly remitted to the Ogulagha HCDT by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), now operating as Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, as part of statutory contributions to host communities affected by oil and gas operations.
Documents obtained by investigators indicate that a petition submitted on April 26, 2026, accused former chairman John Babapere and businesswoman Catherine Uju Ifejika, owner of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited and the Ajapa Marginal Field asset, of alleged criminal breach of trust, violation of community agreements, and diversion of public funds.
The petition alleges that between 2022 and 2025, the Ogulagha Host Community Development Trust received approximately ₦3.167 billion and an additional $4.173 million. Under the Petroleum Industry Act, 75 percent of such funds are expected to be dedicated to community development projects, 20 percent for investments and contingency purposes, while 5 percent is reserved for administrative expenses.
However, residents claim that despite the huge inflow of funds, there is little evidence of corresponding development across the kingdom. Community members point to deteriorating schools, poor road networks, and inadequate infrastructure as signs that the funds may not have been properly utilized.
Several residents have accused some individuals within the community leadership structure of failing to provide transparency regarding the management of the trust funds. They are demanding detailed financial reports showing how the funds were received, invested, and spent.
Some community stakeholders further alleged that only a fraction of the funds can be linked to visible development projects, while concerns have also been raised about the management of investment proceeds generated from the trust’s investment allocation.
Questions have additionally been raised regarding employment opportunities, contract awards, and community engagements involving oil companies operating within the area, with some residents alleging undue influence by certain community leaders.
Community leaders have called on anti-corruption agencies, regulatory authorities, and relevant oversight institutions to conduct a comprehensive forensic audit of all Host Community Development Trust accounts, investments, expenditures, contracts, and projects executed from 2022 to date.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force has formally invited John Babapere for questioning as part of its ongoing fact-finding exercise.
In an invitation letter dated June 4, 2026, issued by the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Force Intelligence Department, Abuja, the former chairman was directed to appear before investigators on June 11, 2026.
The letter, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Adamu S. Mu’azu, stated that the invitation is intended to assist investigators in clarifying issues surrounding the allegations and to ensure justice and fairness in the matter.
As investigations continue, residents of Ogulagha Kingdom are calling for accountability, transparency, and proper utilization of funds intended to improve the lives of people in the oil-producing community.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more details emerge.
