Why are environmental NGOs suing TotalEnergies over its planned sale of its Nigerian SPDC oil stake?

The NGOs, including Friends of the Earth France, are suing TotalEnergies in a French civil court under France's corporate duty of vigilance law to obtain environmental documents—specifically environmental management plans—from the sale agreement with Vaaris, so they can assess whether the plans are sufficient; if deemed insufficient, they intend to file a second lawsuit demanding TotalEnergies take remedial action.

What reasons did TotalEnergies give for selling its 10% stake in the former SPDC asset in Nigeria?

TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanne stated at the May 29 shareholder meeting that the company is selling the asset because it was 'unable to stop oil theft', describing it as a 'national sport' involving puncturing pipelines to siphon oil, and added that sabotage has largely subsided since Shell sold its stake and production increased, with Vaaris assuming responsibility for future leaks.

Climate Activists Sue TotalEnergies, Demand Sale Details of Nigerian SPDC Oil Stake

Jul 1, 2026

Climate activists sued TotalEnergies in France seeking environmental documents regarding its Nigerian SPDC oil stake sale. NGOs question the buyer's capacity to manage pollution risks amid ongoing spills and regulatory delays.

reuters

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