FG Accuses Seplat CEO, Roger Brown, Of Racism, Withdraw His Visa

The Federal Government has revoked the work permit, visa, and residence permit of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Seplat Energy Plc, Roger Brown.

Nigerian government said Seplat workers accused Brown of racism and favouring foreign workers. He allegedly discriminates against Nigerian employees. 

Also, FG said Seplat CEO breached the Expatriate Quota, as he was in possession of a Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC). 

The Minister of Internal Affairs informed the Board Chairman of Seplat Energy in a letter dated 3 March 2023. 

“Withdrawal of Work Permit, CERPAC, Visa/Residence Permit of Mr. Roger Thompson Brown – CEO, SEPLAT Energy Plc” was signed by Akinola M. Adesina, director 2, citizenship and business for honorable minister, addressed to the chairman board of directors of SEPLAT. 

“I write to inform you that the Ministry is in receipt of a petition from the Solicitor to the concerned workers and stakeholders of Seplat Energy PLC accusing Mr. Rogers Thomson Brown, the CEO of the companies of various allegations. 

“These accusations include racism, favouring foreign workers and discriminating against Nigerian employees. Testimony was received from several witnesses, which supported the allegations. Mr. Roger T. Brown declined to attend despite two invitations, claiming to be unavailable even though we learnt he was in Abuja for other purposes at the time. 

“Investigation and records in the Ministry also revealed that Mr. Roger Brown was in possession of CERPAC that was not based on validly issued Expatriate Quota approved by the Ministry of Interior resulting to the violation of relevant Immigration Laws and Regulations. As a result of these, the Honourable Minister has determined that Mr. Brown’s continued stay in Nigeria is contrary to national interest. 

“Consequently, the Ministry has withdrawn the Work Permit CERPAC, Visa, Residence Permit and all relevant documents that authorised Mr. Roger Thomson Brown’s entry or stay in Nigeria”, the letter reads.