In 2009, there was a large oil spill in Nigeria involving the Shell. The spill occurred in the villages of Oruma, Goi and Ikot Ada Udo in the Niger Delta region. The spill was caused by a ruptured pipeline operated by the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC). It resulted in widespread environmental damage.
Following the spill, the affected communities, represented by the non-governmental organization Friends of the Earth Netherlands (Milieudefensie), filed a lawsuit against Shell in a Dutch court.
Following the spill, the affected communities, represented by the non-governmental organization Friends of the Earth Netherlands (Milieudefensie), filed a lawsuit against Shell in a Dutch court.
Spot was contracted to process approximately 7500 claims forms completed by hand. Manual data extraction was not an option because of:
- the number of forms;
- forms had been filled out by hand;
- the potential for fraud;
- potential duplicates;
- Real-world quality issues; and
- Complex sharing formulas.
Spot extracted data from the forms and validated the data using the following verification methods:
- Facial recognition
- Identity documents
- Medical records
- Bank verification
- Bank account number verification
A multi-verification process was used to ensure the quality of the data obtained and to identify any anomalies. Spot cross-referenced documentation to identify problem areas with the data sets early.
Once data extraction, validation and quality assurance were completed, clients were loaded to the batch payment system linked with the partner bank. Batch release of client payments was tightly controlled and monitored with all systems requiring dual authorization for loading and release together with a nominated representative from the client.
This project has now been closed and all claimants have been paid. The Nigeria Project is a testament to Spot Settlements' capability to handle extensive datasets with promptness, efficiency, and precision, and to execute the distribution of funds across various African jurisdictions and within the prescribed legal framework. Our demonstrated proficiency in managing the entire process of distribution and administration is our key differentiator in the market, putting Spot Settlements ahead of other competitors operating on the African continent.