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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Demands EFCC Investigation into Non-Executed Contracts in Ondo Community

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate and prosecute Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic for failing to execute shoreline protection contracts in Ayetoro Community, Ondo State. In a petition to Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, EFCC Executive Chairman, HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, expressed concern over the worsening environmental and socio-economic crisis in the community. Oil exploration has caused significant land loss to Atlantic Ocean incursions, leaving many residents homeless and disrupting their livelihoods. In 2004, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) awarded a ₦2.5 billion contract to Gallet Nigeria Limited, with a ₦650 million mobilization fee, to address shoreline erosion. After four years of non-execution, the contract was terminated. It was re-awarded in 2009 to Dredging Atlantic for ₦6.5 billion, with a ₦2.5 billion mobilization fee, but the project remained incomplete. HEDA highlighted the devastating impact of these failed contracts on Ayetoro, including displacement of residents and worsening climate challenges. The organization warned that continued neglect poses a broader threat to Nigeria’s coastal communities, potentially leading to submersion of cities along the Atlantic coastline. The civil society group urged the anti-graft agency to thoroughly investigate Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic, prosecute those responsible, and recover misappropriated funds to address the community’s needs. “This is a clear case of how corruption deprives communities of essential resources while compounding environmental and socio-economic hardships,” said Arigbabu. “The EFCC must act decisively to restore accountability and bring justice to Ayetoro Community.” HEDA commended the EFCC for its anti-corruption efforts and expressed hope for swift resolution, alleviation of Ayetoro residents’ suffering, and safeguarding of Nigeria’s coastal regions. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, public accountability, and environmental justice, urging stakeholders to protect Ayetoro Community and ensure a sustainable future.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA Calls for Transparency in the Outcomes of Senate Hearing on Subsidy Funds and Budget Performance

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) urges the Nigeria Senate Committee on Appropriation, chaired by Senator Solomon Olamilekan, to prioritize transparency and accountability in the recent Senate hearing involving the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organization expressed serious concerns over key financial issues raised by the Senate committee, such as savings and expenditures from the removal of the fuel subsidy and debt servicing, and urged the Senate to ensure comprehensive investigations, and make the findings publicly accessible. According to Suraju, the Nigerian public have the right to know how their resources are being managed, particularly during economic challenges. He further emphasized the need for the Minister to provide detailed accounts of the savings and expenditures from subsidy removal to the Parliament, clearly outline debt servicing costs for 2024, and provide projections for 2025. The civil society organization also expressed disappointment in the apparent lack of readiness displayed by some public officials during the public hearing, and their sudden demand for closed door session with the parliamentary committee, stating that it undermines public trust in governance. “Closed-door sessions must not become a means of avoiding public accountability. Transparency in these matters is critical for fostering good governance and restoring citizens’ confidence in government institutions,” the statement added. HEDA further called on the Federal Government to enhance its public communication efforts by providing regular updates on the management of national resources. It further demands the monthly publication of FAAC allocations of the Federation across the three tiers of government. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.

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CategoriesHEDA News

HEDA X-SPACE: Sowore to Speak on 2024 Human Rights Abuse in Nigeria

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is thrilled to announce the January 2025 edition of its Monthly Advocacy Series (MAS), a highly impactful virtual platform dedicated to addressing Nigeria’s most pressing national issues. This monthly series, tagged “Chatting with HEDA,” will feature the esteemed human rights activist and founder of Sahara Reporters, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, as the guest speaker. Scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Nigeria time) on X (formerly Twitter) Space, the session will delve into the theme: “2024 Review of Human Rights Abuse in Nigeria.” This promises to be an engaging and illuminating discussion that will shed light on the ongoing challenges of human rights violations, political clampdowns, and the misuse of the Cybercrime Act by law enforcement agencies. This interactive program provides a unique opportunity for Mr. Sowore to share his invaluable perspectives on these critical issues, drawing from his personal experiences with political victimization and his unwavering commitment to advancing human rights and democracy. Participants can look forward to a rich discussion moderated by HEDA, featuring a 30-minute conversation, a 20-minute Q&A session, and 10 minutes dedicated to closing remarks and acknowledgments. HEDA Resource Centre remains steadfast in its mission to promote good governance, transparency, human rights, and sustainable development in Nigeria. The Monthly Advocacy Series is a cornerstone of this mission, bringing together thought leaders, activists, and the public to address issues vital to national development. We invite members of the public, civil society organizations, policymakers, and the media to join this critical conversation via HEDA’s X Page @Hedagenda on Wednesday. January 15, 2025, at 4pm.  

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CategoriesHEDA News

Oil and Gas Exploration: 70% of Bayelsa Residents Blame Oil Activities for Pollution; 79% Suffer Health Issues, 82% Criticize Government Response – HEDA Report

–  CSO Demands effective remediation efforts, greater accountability from IOCs, FG A recent report by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has highlighted the severe impact of oil and environmental pollution in Bayelsa State, one of the oil-producing states in the Niger Delta region. The report, titled “Report of On-the-Spot Assessment of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria,” provides a detailed account of the detrimental effects of frequent oil exploitation, spills and pollution in Bayelsa. The findings reveal a significant reduction in agricultural productivity, increasing contamination of water resources, and loss of biodiversity, leading to long-term ecosystem damage and the disappearance of traditional medicinal plants. The comprehensive survey, which involved 289 respondents from all eight local government areas in Bayelsa State, including Brass, Ekremor, Lolokuma/Opokuma, Nembe, Ogbia, Sagbama, Southern Ijaw, and Yenagoa, found that 70.2% of respondents believe that oil and gas activities have significantly contributed to environmental pollution and degradation in the State. Water pollution was reported by 55.7% of respondents, making it the most prevalent type of pollution experienced. This was followed by air pollution (23.18%), soil pollution (15.92%), and other types of pollution (4.84%). The research also discovered that majority of respondents 79.24% and their families in each of the local government areas experience negative health effects due to oil pollution in their communities. The local government areas of Kolokuma/Opokuma, Nembe, and Yenagoa, which have a high number of oil installations, reported particularly high levels of health issues. On the question of government accountability, 70.24% of respondents believe that the government does not hold oil and gas companies accountable for environmental damage, while only 20.42% expressed that they are somewhat accountable, and 9.34% said they are highly accountable. Additionally, 54.86% of respondents believe that companies can adequately address concerns related to land degradation or deforestation resulting from oil and gas activities. In terms of government responsiveness, 81.94% of respondents are not satisfied with the response of federal government agencies to environmental concerns raised by the affected communities. Furthermore, 75.26% do not believe that government agencies effectively oversee and enforce regulations to protect the rights of the community. The report also evaluated the handling of oil and gas asset divestment by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) in Bayelsa State. Respondents rated the divestment handling as poor (67.13%), fair (18.34%), not available (8.65%), good (5.19%), and excellent (0.69%). Similarly, 72.32% of respondents rated the transparency of International Oil Companies (IOCs) in communicating processes as poor, while 12.80% rated it fair, 5.54% good, 0.35% excellent, and 9.00% not available. Local community involvement in the divestment process was also assessed, with 41.52% of respondents stating that they are not involved at all, 39.79% not very involved, 12.11% somewhat involved, and 0.69% very involved. Regarding the perception of companies’ responsiveness to citizens’ concerns and feedback on divestment, 42.56% of respondents said they are not responsive at all, 25.26% not very responsive, and only 1.73% found them responsive. When asked about their awareness of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) checklist, 73% of respondents said they do not know about the NUPRC checklist, while 27% said they are aware and have access to it. Focus Group Discussions conducted as part of the research highlighted several critical issues, including environmental catastrophes, severe impacts on respondents’ livelihoods, human rights violations, health crises, and socio-cultural degradation. The focus group discussions underscored the urgent need for infrastructural maintenance to prevent such failures. Meanwhile, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju emphasized the need for urgent action, stating, “The NUPRC should enforce environmental regulations with stricter penalties for non-compliant IOCs. Increased funding and ensuring transparency in remediation efforts are essential. Regular engagement between IOCs, government agencies, and communities should be mandated, along with the development of community-led monitoring initiatives. “Launching comprehensive health programs and conducting long-term health studies are vital. Sustainable livelihood programs, and fair compensation for affected communities should be prioritized. Strengthening anti-corruption frameworks with technology for transparency is crucial.” The report’s findings are stark reminders of the ecological and economic sustainability challenges facing Bayelsa State. As Suraju noted, “The findings of this research highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and effective remediation efforts, stronger regulatory enforcement, and greater accountability from both IOCs and government bodies. These measures are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of leases in various capacities and guiding development, enhancing accountability, and informing stakeholders.” The full report of the “On-the-Spot Assessment of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria” is available on the HEDA website and can be downloaded here (Report of On-the-Spot Assessment of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria – HEDA Resource Centre). The report offers valuable insights to inform discussions, policies, and decisions shaping the nation’s future.

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Ex-Oni Queen, Naomi Silekunola, Chairman Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat. CategoriesHEDA News

Ibadan Stampede: HEDA Warns Against Criminalizing Charity, Urges Makinde, Police to Prioritize Unbiased Investigation

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Oyo State Government and relevant authorities to avoid criminalizing charity in the investigation of the tragic stampede during a Christmas charity event in Ibadan. The incident, which involved Ex-Oni Wife Silekunola Naomi, Oriyomi Hamzat, and Islamic School Principal Abdullahi Fasasi, has drawn widespread attention. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, the organization emphasized the need for a thorough and impartial investigation, urging against scapegoating and bias. It stressed the urgent need for government across all levels to address the root causes of the incident, including poverty, hunger, societal values where desperation often leads to unruly behavior, even during well-meaning charitable events, and the lack of proper crowd management and safety protocols. HEDA also frowned at the continuous detention of the organizers and the school principal, who merely rented out the facility. “It is troubling to see the government and police’s approach, which seems to criminalize acts of charity and humanitarian interventions. This has long been a challenge in Nigeria, where well-intentioned individuals fear repercussions for offering help,” Arigbabu said. The organization further called on the police to conduct a transparent investigation without criminalizing goodwill and highlighted the need for well-meaning Nigerians to learn from the tragedy by prioritizing safety, crowd control, and planning in future events. The group also pointed out the need for consistent treatment of similar incidents nationwide, citing previous stampedes in Abuja and Anambra. It called for justice for victims and accountability for all stakeholders involved. “Fairness and due process must guide the investigation, and systemic issues contributing to such disasters should be addressed,” HEDA stated.

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CategoriesClimate change

Niger Delta Oil Pollution: Over 60% Suffers Negative Health Effects, Biodiversity – HEDA Reports

— Suraju Charges Government, IOCs on Ecological and Economic Sustainability for the Region A recent research and data-driven report by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has shed light on the devastating impact of oil and environmental pollution in the Niger Delta region. The report, titled “Leadership Approval Rating: Impact of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Six Oil-Producing States in Nigeria,” reveals that an alarming 60% of the population in the region suffers from health problems caused by oil pollution, while 75% of respondents reported negative impacts on local biodiversity. The survey, which sampled 1,074 people across six states, including Akwa-Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers, found that 70% of respondents believe oil and gas activities have significantly contributed to environmental pollution. Water pollution, in particular, was cited as the most common type of pollution, with an average of 41% of respondents witnessing it firsthand. The comprehensive research findings also discovered that 61% of respondents reported negative health effects due to oil pollution, highlighting a pressing need for health interventions and environmental remediation. On the biodiversity loss, 75% of respondents reported that environmental pollution has affected local biodiversity, including animals, fish, and birds. Meanwhile, on the Government Accountability, 45% of respondents do not believe their state government holds oil and gas companies accountable for environmental damage, while 76% expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government’s responsiveness to environmental concerns.   Speaking about the findings of the report, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, emphasized the need for urgent action, stating, “The call for action is clear; for oil companies and government agencies to engage more proactively with communities, protect the environment, and the people who depend on it, and pave the way for a future that is both economically and ecologically sustainable.” The report’s findings are a stark reminder of the ecological and economic sustainability challenges facing the Niger Delta region. As Suraju noted, “The ratings are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of leases in various capacities and guiding development, enhancing accountability, and informing stakeholders.” The full report of the Leadership Approval Rating is available on the HEDA website and can be downloaded here (https://hedang.org/leadership-approval-rating-impact-of-oil-and-gas-exploration-activities-in-six-oil-producing-states-in-nigeria/). It is valuable resource, offering insights that can inform discussions, policies, and decisions that shape the nation’s future.

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CategoriesHEDA News

Climate-Smart Agriculture: HEDA Partners with Fresh FM Osogbo to Empower Farmers with Climate Information

In a groundbreaking move to enhance climate awareness and support smallholder farmers who rely on predictable weather patterns in Nigeria, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Fresh FM Osogbo. This strategic partnership aims to deliver accurate and timely climate information to the public, foster climate education, and promote climate-smart agricultural practices. Through this collaboration, Fresh (104.9) FM Osogbo will leverage its wide reach across Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and parts of Kwara to disseminate vital climate updates. HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “This initiative is part of our commitment to providing farmers with essential resources like the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). We also envision this program evolving into an accountability platform where state actors are held responsible for advancing climate justice. We are excited about its potential impact.” Abiodun Opasina, Lead Agriculture Desk at Fresh FM, praised HEDA’s efforts, describing the collaboration as timely. He emphasized the alignment between the project and Fresh FM’s farming-focused weekly program, Sa’agbe Do Ola (Turns Farming to Wealth), which has a strong following among listeners. “This partnership reflects our commitment to food security by ensuring local farmers are equipped with actionable information about climate change,” Opasina added. The MOU, set to commence in January 2025, will span an initial 12 months. Under the agreement, HEDA will provide weekly climate updates, including news, tips, and other valuable content, while Fresh FM will broadcast these updates during its programs. Additionally, Fresh FM will subtly promote HEDA’s mission and activities through its radio programming and social media channels. This partnership between HEDA Resource Centre and Fresh FM Osogbo is poised to be a significant step forward in promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers with the knowledge needed to adapt to changing climate conditions.

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CategoriesHEDA News

Anti-Corruption: HEDA Commends ICPC Efforts, Urges Stronger Collaboration with CSOs, Others

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has applauded the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for its recent strides in combating corruption. The anti-corruption group described the ICPC’s recent recoveries as commendable milestones that reaffirm the commission’s dedication to upholding integrity in public service. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the commendation follows the ICPC’s announcement that it recovered N29.7 billion in cash and $966,900.83 in foreign currency within the past year. ICPC also revealed that the commission blocked the diversion of N10 billion in COVID-19 vaccine funds and prevented the misappropriation of N5.882 billion in public funds. Additionally, the ICPC successfully recovered N10.986 billion in Value-Added Tax (VAT), which has been remitted to the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). According to Suraju, these achievements highlight the importance of ICPC’s strategic initiatives, such as the Ethics and Integrity Compliance Scorecard, which assessed 323 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). He also acknowledged the establishment of 80 Anti-Corruption and Transparency Units across government bodies as crucial steps toward fostering a culture of accountability and ethical governance. While commending the ICPC’s efforts, HEDA urged the commission to strengthen collaboration with civil society organizations (CSOs), other anti-corruption agencies, and relevant stakeholders. “A unified front is critical to effectively dismantling corruption networks and promoting transparency in Nigeria,” Suraju noted. He further emphasized that the fight against corruption requires collective effort, urging Nigerians to support and cooperate with anti-corruption bodies. “Together, we can create a Nigeria where public resources are used for the benefit of all, and accountability becomes a norm in every sector,” he concluded. HEDA’s call for stronger collaboration reinforces the importance of synergy in sustaining Nigeria’s anti-corruption efforts, offering hope for a more transparent and accountable public sector. He further demands the commission’s diligent and special monitoring of revenue generating agencies such as FIRS, NNPC, CBN, CAC, FCT, NIMASA, NPA, NAFDAC, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the embassies in its corruption prevention and investigation activities.

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International CSOs to Tinubu: Halt Oil Divestment in Niger Delta, Warns that Approval of IOCs Assets Sales Would Be Detrimental to the Niger Delta

A coalition of local and International Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for an immediate and comprehensive halt to all divestment requests from International Oil Corporations in the Niger Delta including Shell, Total, ENI and other IOCs with similar plans, until significant environmental and social liabilities associated with operations in the Niger Delta are adequately addressed.   The formation group further charged President Tinubu to sustain the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission’s (NUPRC) rejection of Shell’s request to sell its remaining shares in the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to the Renaissance consortium. The call is also urged to be extended to other international oil corporations including TotalEnergies who are also attempting to sell their stakes in SPDC and other Nigerian onshore oil assets. The pivotal and urgency demand were made in a statement jointly signed by 120 representative of CSOs across the world including 12 Diaries – Diaspora Climate Platform (Belgium), 350Hawaii (USA), AbibiNsroma Foundation (Ghana), Activists for climate Justice Initiative Uganda (Uganda), ADDEA,  African Center for Climate, Energy and Sustainable Development (Burkina Faso), African Initiative on Food Security and Environment (Uganda), Aksil for gender, social and ecological justice (Indonesia), Alabama Interfaith Power & Light (USA), Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, Amnesty International Nigeria (Nigeria), Animals Are Sentient Beings, Inc (USA), Bank Climate Advocates (USA), Better Path Coalition, Biowatch South Africa (South Africa), Blackfins (Germany), Blue Planet Project (International), Both ENDS (Netherlands), Breathe Easy Susquehanna County (USA), Centre for Citizens Conserving Environment & Mgt (CECIC) Uganda, Centre for Social Change (South Africa), Christian Aid Ireland (Ireland), Citizens Advocacy Centre (Nigeria), Climate Action for Lifelong Learners (Canada), Climate Action Network (CAN) Zambia, Climate Reality Lehigh Valley PA Chapter (USA), Coalition to Protect New York (USA), Committee for Peace arid Development Advocacy, COPDA (Liberia), COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding (Nigeria), Concerned Health Professionals of Pennsylvania (USA), Corner House (United Kingdom), Corporate Accountability Lab (USA), Daraja Press (Canada ), Davos Worldwide (USA), Diálogo 2000-Jubileo Sur Argentina (Argentina), Earth Action, Inc. (USA), Earthlite Africa (South Africa), Earthlife Africa Durban (South Africa) East African Crude Oil Pipeline Host Communities (Uganda). EG Justice (Equatorial Guinea), EKOenergy ecolabel (Finland/Global), Environment and Language Education Trust (ELET) (South Africa), Equal Right (United Kingdom), ESJI Namibia (Namibia), Focus Association for Sustainable Development (Slovenia), Fossielvrij NL (Netherlands), Foundation for the Conservation of the Earth FOGONE (Nigeria), Fox Valley Citizens for Peace & Justice (Illinois) (USA), Friends of the Earth Canada (Canada), Fundación Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (FARN) (Argentina), Global Justice Ecology Project, Greenfire Coaltion Writers’ Forum (USA), Guyana Oiland Gas Change (Guyana), Hawkmoth, Human and Environmental Development Agenda (Nigeria), IGSE (South Africa), INF (Nigeria), Innovation pour le Développement et la Protection de l’Environneme (Democratic Republic of Congo), Institutional and Sustainable Development Foundation (Nigeria), International Analog Forestry Network (Costa Rica), International Rights Advocates, Law, Development and Conflict Research Group (United Kingdom, Lawyers Are Responsible (United Kingdom), Leave it in the Ground Initiative LINGO (Germany), Legislative Media and Citizens Advocacy Initiative LeMCA (Nigeria), MARBE SA, (Costa Rica), Mazingira Network Tanzania (MANET), Milieudefensie (Netherlands), Misère Option Zéro (MOZ), Mothers Rise Up (United Kingdom), Move Past Plastic MPP (USA), New Energy Economy (USA), NGO Echo (Kazakhstan), No Business With Genocide (USA), No False Climate Solutions PA (USA), Notre Affaire A lous (France), Nuclear Information and Resource Service (USA), Oil & Gas Governance Network(USA), Oil Change International, Ombudsman Energía México (Mexico), ONG ACOMB (Togo). Our sacred earth, Oyu Tolgoi Watch (Mongolia), Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum (Pakistan), Peace Point Development Foundation-PPDF (Nigeria), Peace, Justice, Sustainability NOW!, Publish What You Pay (United Kingdom), Quest I or Growth and Development Foundation, R Anthony and Co. (Nigeria), Rapid Transition Alliance (United Kingdom), Razom We Stand (Ukraine), ReCommon (Italy), Red Thread Women’s Organiztion (Guyana), Rettel den Regenwald (Germany), Rights and Accountability in Development RAID (United Kingdom), Rivers without Boundanes (Mongolia), Social Action Nigeria (Nigeria), SOMO (Netherlands), South Durban Community Environmental Alliance (South Africa), Sustainable Holistic Development Foundation SUHODE (Tanzania), The Freedom Fund (United Kingdom), The Future We need, The Lebanese Oil and Gas Initiative (Lebanon), The People’s Justice Council (USA), Transnational Institute (Netherlands), Transparency International Ireland (Ireland), Unite North Metro Denver (USA), Uplift (United Kingdom), Urgewald (Germany), Vessel Project of Louisiana (USA), Vote Climate (USA), Weka Afri Sustainable Biodiversity and Food Security Foundation (Uganda), Widows for Peace through Democracy (United Kingdom), Youth for Green Communities YGC (Uganda), Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC Nigeria), Zukunftsrat Hamburg (Germany). According to the coalition, any approval of Shell and Total’s requests would weaken Nigeria’s regulatory independence, ignore the interests of the Niger Delta communities, jeopardize the environmental and social well-being of the region for generations to come, and undermine Nigeria’s including sovereignty. The statement reads in part, “It is critical to emphasize that the Nigerian Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the NUPRC’s responsibility to uphold this law were clearly outlined when Shell’s divestment request was initially rejected. NUPRC’s refusal was based on legitimate concerns, including Shell’s failure to adequately address the significant environmental and social liabilities associated with its operations in the Niger Delta, as was independently assessed and recommended by international assessors contracted by the country.”. “We ask Mr. President to ensure that the immediate financial interests of a few multinational corporations and local profiteers do not outweigh the health, future, and survival of millions of Nigerians who have suffered for decades. President Tinubu must safeguard the future of Nigeria, ensuring that all its people, especially those in the Niger Delta, are not sacrificed for the benefit of global capital and a few local profiteers.” “We want to make it absolutely clear: approving Shell’s or TotalEnergies’ divestment in its current form without addressing the profound environmental and social costs would be a grave injustice to the people of the Niger Delta and could lead to significant unrest in the region. It would be an affront to the generations of Niger Deltans who have fought and died for environmental justice, their homes, and their livelihoods.” “Approving Shell’s SPDC share sale would send a dangerous message to all multinational corporations operating in Nigeria that they

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CategoriesHEDA News

Niger-Delta CSOs Urge Tinubu to Halt IOC Divestments Until Demands Are Addressed

A coalition of Civil Society Organizations operating in the Niger-Delta region is calling on President Bola Tinubu to halt any further plans for International Oil Companies (IOCs) to divest operations from the region until their demands are met. The group made this known in Port Harcourt during a protest march to the Government House, displaying placards and registering their displeasure with the IOCs’ actions in the region. Recall that on Monday, December 16, 2024, HEDA Resource Centre, along with other CSOs, including Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF); Social Action Nigeria; Kebetkache Women Development and Resource Centre; Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA); League of Queens International Empowerment; Policy Alert; We the People; Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria; Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ); Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED); Accountability Lab; International Peace and Civic Responsibility Centre (IPCRC); Civil Rights Council; Keen and Care Initiative, called on President Bola Tinubu to sustain the Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission’s (NUPRC) rejection of Shell’s request to sell its remaining shares in the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to the Renaissance consortium. Others CSOs include: Healthy Life Development initiative; Gbolekekro Women Empowerment And Development Organization (GWEDO); Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC); Centre for Environment, Human Rights and Development (CEHRD); Peace Point Development Foundation; Lekeh Development Foundation; Society for Women and Youths Affairs (SWAYA); Lokiaka Community Development Centre; People’s Advancement Centre; Ogoni Solidarity Forum; Africa Centre for Media and Information Literacy (AFRICMIL). Other international oil corporations, such as TotalEnergies, are also attempting to sell their stakes in SPDC and other Nigerian onshore oil assets. The group noted that any approval of Shell’s and Total’s requests would weaken regulatory independence, ignore the interests of the Niger Delta communities, jeopardize the environmental and social well-being of the region for generations to come, and undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty.

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