AEC Sues Sankofa Events, Paul Sinclair, and Hyve Events for Misrepresentation

Johannesburg – The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org/) has announced that Sankofa Events Limited and Paul Sinclair are being included in a legal case related to alleged misrepresentation, unlawful completion, and false marketing.

The AEC has revealed that this case will be taken to the High Court in South Africa against Hyve Events SA Limited, Sankofa Events Limited, and Paul Sinclair.

“The Edictal Citation application has been approved, permitting Sankofa Events and Paul Sinclair to participate in proceedings concerning damages from misrepresentation, unlawful completion, and false marketing,” affirmed the AEC.

“This serves as an official legal notice for the respondents, as the court recognizes a compelling case for misrepresentation – a serious charge with significant implications for the African energy sector.

“Sankofa Events Limited and Paul Sinclair are accused of spreading false statements and misleading information regarding the upcoming Africa Oil Week (AOW): Energy conference.”

The AEC noted that the event, which has been relocated to Accra, Ghana, for its 31st edition, has been plagued by various misleading statements, press releases, and communications, particularly concerning its participants and discussion topics.

“A noteworthy example involves information circulated through AOW: Energy’s official communication channels concerning the participation of Equatorial Guinea’s state-owned oil company GEPetrol,” the AEC stated.

“Details regarding technical presentations, one-on-one meetings, and the promotion of new licenses by the corporation were shared, yet they remained neither verified nor confirmed by GEPetrol.

“Such misrepresentation is designed to entice delegates into attending and does not accurately depict the event itself.”

As a result, the AEC – representing the voice of the African energy sector – is pursuing legal action against Sankofa Events Limited and Paul Sinclair in Ghana from South Africa, acknowledging the significant damages caused by this level of misrepresentation to stakeholders across the continent.

Sankofa Events Limited and Paul Sinclair are required to engage legally in the case as they have been officially added to this notable lawsuit.

The respondents have a 30-day timeframe from the date of service in their country to respond to the Joinder Application.

This case emerges at a critical time for the African energy sector, emphasizing its importance.

Amid global divisions on essential topics such as energy transition and hydrocarbon investment, Africa requires a unified voice.

With over 600 million people in the continent lacking access to electricity and more than 900 million without clean cooking solutions, the need for collaboration to address challenges and foster development has never been more urgent.

“However, entities like Sankofa Events Limited and individuals such as Paul Sinclair exploit platforms like AOW: Energy to advance their personal interests,” stated the AEC.

“Rather than concentrating on Africa’s vital needs, these parties continuously demonstrate their intent to attract investment for their own benefit.

“Through misrepresentation, they seek to draw capital and attendees to their event, regardless of their inability to fulfill their promises.”

The AEC stressed that such actions hinder productivity, disrupt meaningful progress in tackling critical energy issues, and impact the continent’s initiatives to eliminate energy poverty.

“The lawsuit initiated by the AEC aims to hold Sankofa Events Limited and Paul Sinclair accountable for their actions,” remarked NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

“Africa deserves better than organizations and individuals who prioritize their self-interests over the continent’s needs.

“The AEC is wholly committed to supporting the continent and protecting the interests of its people.”