Seplat Energy Defends CEO, Roger Brown, Amid Series Of Allegations

The board of directors, Seplat Energy Plc, have thrown their weight behind the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Roger Brown, after a series of allegations made against him by the Federal Government.

In a letter dated 3 March 2023, written to Seplat’s board, FG said some employees accused Brown of racism and discriminating against Nigerian workers while favouring foreign staff.

Part of the allegation included possession of a Combined Expatriate Residence Permit and Aliens Card (CERPAC) which FG said wasn’t a valid Expatriate Quota.

In light of the allegations, the government revoked his visa, restricting him from working in Nigeria, but in response, Seplat said Brown will work from the company’s office in the United Kingdom. 

The oil and gas firm said Brown has the confidence of the board, as the allegations made against him are a spurious and vindictive reaction to the enforcement of corporate governance standards in the Company by the board. 

This was stated in a statement sent to shareholders on Thursday, 9 March 2023, which opined that the allegation was orchestrated by media reports and clearly calculated to spread false information. 

“Seplat Energy Plc has become aware of a news report following a letter regarding the residency status of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr Roger Brown. 

“Seplat Energy wishes to refute the false allegations against Mr Brown, which have been presented to the Ministry of Interior and the public by certain petitioners, and which have not been brought to the attention of Mr Roger Brown or Seplat Energy for a reaction.

“The orchestrated media reports are clearly calculated to spread false information. Seplat Energy will be engaging with the Ministry to reject the impressions created by these allegations,” the company wrote.

It stated further: “The Board believes that these allegations are a spurious and vindictive reaction to the enforcement of corporate governance standards in the Company by the Board of Seplat Energy. 

“Over the past decade, Mr Brown has earned an unblemished record of service and leadership in the Company. On 8th March 2023, the Board of Seplat Energy unanimously passed a vote of confidence in Mr Brown, who continues to discharge his duties and responsibilities as CEO from the SEPLAT UK office.”