Cross River’s Oil Well Battle Doomed? Legal Experts Predict Major Defeat

Two legal experts — Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, a former presidential aide, and Justice Osai Ahiakwo, a public affairs analyst — have expressed skepticism over the possibility of the Supreme Court reversing its 2012 judgment that awarded 76 disputed oil wells to Akwa Ibom State.

Their opinions follow a statement by Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, who disclosed during a media parley three months ago that his administration was taking steps to reclaim the oil wells, lost more than a decade ago.

The governor’s remarks sparked intense debate, with some citizens urging the state government to return to the Supreme Court, citing newly discovered evidence that could justify reopening the case: Government of Cross River State vs. Government of Akwa Ibom State (May 12, 2012).

However, Chief Obono-Obla cautioned that overturning a Supreme Court verdict is extremely rare. While fresh evidence could provide grounds to revisit a ruling, he said the bar is very high.

“To succeed, the evidence must be both relevant and material — capable of changing the verdict — and must have been previously undiscoverable despite diligent efforts,” he said.

“Examples include unavailable documents, witness testimonies, or expert analysis that could not be accessed during the original trial.”

He warned that any attempt to return to the court might prove futile, wasting public resources and judicial time. “It’s a matter best left as settled precedent,” he concluded.

Justice Ahiakwo offered a slightly different perspective. While acknowledging the finality of Supreme Court rulings, he pointed out that they are not beyond review.

Citing Section 232(1) of the 1999 Constitution and Order 20 Rule 4 of the Supreme Court rules, Ahiakwo said the apex court has jurisdiction to revisit its judgments under exceptional circumstances.

He agreed that compelling new evidence or proof of procedural errors during the original trial could justify a review. “Ultimately, the court’s decision will hinge on the specifics of the case and its interpretation of constitutional powers,” he said.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, the Akwa Ibom State government issued a statement asserting that the 76 oil wells rightfully belong to them — not Cross River.