As multinational oil companies in the Niger Delta begin divestment of their assets and operation, what becomes of the oil-rich region whose environment has been degraded and livelihood destroyed following long years of oil exploration activities?
This question formed thrust of discussions in Abuja at the third edition of the Niger Delta Alternatives Convergence, which is a people-driven engagement designed to amplify the voices of those affected and to craft common responses towards addressing the challenge.
From aging oil infrastructure laid over the years, oil spills, and gas flaring, as the consistent story of deprivation and neglect amid a rising climate crisis these have been the legacy in the Niger Delta region and its people since oil exploration began in the 1950s. This is still being re-echoed at this event, 70 years after.
It will be recalled that the first Niger Delta Alternatives Convergence, NDAC, which held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, adopted the Niger Delta Manifesto for Socio-Ecological Justice. The document summarises critical socio-ecological issues impacting the region and presents a set of demands for immediate attention.
Representatives of frontline civil society organisations, traditional rulers, ethnic groups and concerned individuals in the Niger Delta region pledged to amplify their voices on these demands and the complexities of the burden.
(Source: ait.live)