I consider it a clever way to raise some operating cash as well...

I consider it a clever way to raise some operating cash as well as rewarding the holders. Yes it will probably increase the sp as traders want exposure to the options, and yes it may come off a bit once the record date expires.

Something to note though.... This is assuming all things are known and no news comes out in the mean time. The record date has not been provided and I would think this will be announced later in the week perhaps. The prospectus will have to be prepared and issued with the record date occurring g some time in November. The negotiations that continue on the Niger Delta were forecast to be announced sometime in November as well. I would guess when that comes out the options will be a distant memory, except for those who have the foresight to be on the register by Record Date.

In other words, depending on timing of future announcements, the options issue may/may not have a big effect on the SP.