Stakeholders in the Niger Delta region have raised concerns, alleging that Western banks are providing financial support to multinational oil corporations engaged in oil exploration within the Niger Delta.
These allegations suggest a heightened level of environmental degradation in the area.
During a one-day stakeholders’ meeting organized by ActionAid Nigeria in Asaba, Delta State, community leaders were accused of compromising their positions due to poverty, a consequence of the divisive tactics employed by multinational oil companies.
The stakeholders issued a communiqué on Friday, endorsed by ActionAid Nigeria’s County Director, Andrew Mamedu, which visually documented the adverse effects of oil companies in the Niger Delta.
The communiqué highlighted the lack of political will among leaders to enforce relevant laws, hindering efforts to address the abnormalities associated with oil exploration.
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Specific concerns mentioned included gas flaring, water channel pollution, and deforestation.
The stakeholders called on the government to establish robust penalties for oil companies involved in gas flaring.
Furthermore, the communiqué urged for a thorough cleanup of areas affected by oil spillages in the Niger Delta.
While advocating for a transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, stakeholders insisted that all multinational companies must establish a carbon gas desk.
In addition, the stakeholders appealed to host communities and individuals affected by oil exploration to familiarize themselves with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
They called on the House Committee on Climate Change and the Committee of Niger Delta Affairs to establish a dedicated office with host communities to facilitate the resolution of complaints.
Lastly, the community emphasized the need for stronger penalties for oil companies engaging in gas flaring within the region.
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