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HEDA Urges Tinubu, NUPRC to Hold Shell Accountable for Environmental Clean-Up

Following the recent reported approval of Shell Petroleum Development Company’s (SPDC) $2.4 billion divestment of its onshore assets in the Niger Delta to Renaissance Africa Energy Holdings, The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) strongly urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to ensure that Shell fulfills its obligations by addressing the environmental devastation it has caused in the Niger Delta before finalizing this divestment. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group emphasized that Shell must not be allowed to walk away from decades of environmental degradation, legal liabilities, and social injustices inflicted on host communities. According to Suraju, the reports indicate the divestment was concluded despite ongoing litigations, a court-ordered injunction barring the sale, and over N500 billion in environmental damages being demanded by affected communities. He condemned this development, stating, “This blatant disregard for judicial authority not only undermines Nigeria’s legal system but also sets a dangerous precedence where multinational corporations can evade responsibility with impunity.” Furthermore, HEDA criticized the approval of the transaction without proper consultation with impacted communities, describing it as yet another act of marginalization against local populations whose lives and livelihoods have been severely affected by oil pollution. “Shell has a long history of environmental infractions in the Niger Delta, leaving communities to suffer the consequences of oil spills, gas flaring, and ecosystem destruction. These damages have led to the loss of livelihoods, severe health risks, and the destruction of aquatic and agricultural resources. It is, therefore, unacceptable for Shell to divest its assets without first remediating the affected areas. The burden of cleanup and legal liabilities must not be transferred to the incoming Nigerian operators, who may lack the technical and financial capacity to address these longstanding issues. HEDA aligns with the concerns raised by host communities, environmental groups, and civil society organizations, all of whom have called for a halt to the sale until Shell takes full responsibility for its environmental footprint. “The Federal Government must prioritize justice over profit by ensuring that Shell and its partners commit to a comprehensive and independently monitored cleanup process before exiting the onshore oil sector. Additionally, we are calling on the NUPRC to uphold its regulatory integrity and resist any external pressure that undermines transparency and accountability in the sector. The Commission must act in the best interest of the Nigerian people rather than succumb to corporate or political interests.” The people of the Niger Delta deserve justice, clean water, and a restored environment. HEDA Resource Centre stands firmly with affected communities in demanding that Shell cleans up its mess before exiting. The organization pledges to explore all legal and advocacy channels to ensure that this demand is met.

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HEDA Commends EFCC’s Anti-Corruption Efforts on Ex-AGF Idris N109 Billion Fraud Case, Calls for Swift Judicial Action

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. This commitment is evident in the ongoing trial of former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, and others accused of diverting N109.5 billion in public funds. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the group commended the EFCC’s resolve in pursuing the case. He emphasized, “The massive scale of the alleged fraud highlights the urgent need for accountability in public office. We urge the judiciary to ensure justice is served promptly, as prolonged trials can embolden corruption and erode public trust in our legal system.” While acknowledging the importance of due process, the anti-corruption group stresses that justice should not be compromised by technicalities or unnecessary delays. Suraju added, “The judiciary plays a vital role in reinforcing Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight by handling cases like this with urgency and fairness. We demand the same level of commitment in handling the case of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.” HEDA further demand the prosecution of States Commissioners of Finance and Governor who were part of the Paris club refund corruption for the which the former Accountant General is standing trial. HEDA remains committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and good governance. The civil society organization calls on all stakeholders in the justice system to work towards a judicial process that strengthens Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, ensuring those found guilty face the full consequences of the law.

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HEDA Report Exposes Oil Licensing Flaws, Weak Regulations, Environmental Injustice

As part of its effort to ensure transparency and accountability in the Nigeria’s oil licensing bidding process, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has exposed serious flaws in Nigeria’s oil licensing process, highlighting regulatory failures, financial misconduct, and environmental injustice in the Niger Delta.  At the public presentation of its latest report in Ikeja, Lagos, HEDA revealed that several companies awarded marginal oil field licenses in the 2020/2021 bidding round lacked proper registration and failed to meet legal and financial requirements. The report, with the support from Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), titled “Marginal Fields’ Awards, Regulators’ Independence, and Environmental Injustice: Paradox of Beneficial Ownership and the Host Communities”, also raised concerns over the unchecked environmental damage caused by oil companies. Chairman, HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, condemned the awarding of contracts to unregistered companies, questioning the credibility of Nigeria’s oil sector regulations. “Out of approximately 38 companies, 18 are not even registered, and many have failed to file their annual returns. This is not about the supply of goods and services; we are talking about Nigeria’s main economic sector,” he said. He stressed that the failure to enforce due diligence had led to massive revenue losses for the country and called for collaboration between regulatory agencies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). Beyond financial misconduct, Suraju warned that environmental pollution in the Niger Delta remains a pressing concern. He urged civil society, the diplomatic community, and international organisations to intervene, particularly as oil companies attempt to divest from Nigeria without fulfilling their environmental responsibilities. The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, commended HEDA’s efforts in promoting transparency and accountability, reaffirming NEITI’s commitment to ensuring responsible resource management. “Beneficial ownership transparency is not just about knowing who owns what. It is about protecting our nation’s resources from corruption, illicit financial flows, and mismanagement. Host communities must be protected, compensated, and empowered.” Book Reviewer and Lecturer, University of Lagos, Prof. Dayo Ayoade, criticised the licensing process, describing it as compromised by political influence and corruption. “The 2020/2021 marginal fields bidding round exhibited procedural abuse and corrupt practices, leading to significant financial losses. Some of the winning companies were owned or backed by politically exposed persons,” he said. Ayoade added that 11 out of the 35 surveyed companies were inactive under the CAC, while several lacked the tax clearance certificates required for eligibility under the Public Procurement Act 2007. He further warned that oil companies seeking to exit Nigeria must first be held accountable for their environmental damage. “Before these companies are allowed to exit, they must remediate the damage done, pay compensation, and fulfill their decommissioning responsibilities.” You can download the report here

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HEDA 38th ACSR: Stakeholders Urge President Tinubu to Intensify Anti-Corruption Efforts

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s fight against corruption convened at the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR), organized by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre). They called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt a holistic approach to combat corruption, addressing all sectors and managing public expectations. They also urged the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026 as a working document. The event, themed “Ethics, Integrity, Corruption Risk Assessments, and Anti-Corruption at National and Sub-National Levels in Nigeria: Sustaining the Fight Against Corruption,” aimed to engage stakeholders in responding to the country’s recent corruption perception rating, addressing pervasive issues of corruption and impunity, and fostering a culture of ethical respect, integrity, and accountability at all levels of governance. Participants emphasized that deterrence remains the best strategy in the fight against corruption. They called for sustained punishment for corrupt individuals and improvements in the quality of investigations and law enforcement. Despite the challenges, participants expressed hope and agreed to intensify efforts to eradicate corruption for Nigeria’s prosperity, social, economic, and political renaissance. Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, decried the state of corruption in Nigeria, describing it as a major obstacle to the country’s development. He urged Nigerians to support law enforcement agencies in holding corrupt persons accountable. He said, “The fight against corruption is for everyone. When you see people being investigated and we have shown you the evidence, don’t join them to carry placards and abuse EFCC, ICPC, and because you are contributing to the problems. All of us must fight this corruption together” Speaking as the keynote speaker on the theme, “Fostering Integrity and Accountability to Reclaim Our Future: Strategies for Combating Corruption and Impunity Across Board in Nigeria,” Prof. Shehu Abdullah identified strong political will and an effective legislative framework as key strategies to combat corruption and impunity in Nigeria. He also urged state actors to prioritize accountability, stating, “Earning the trust and confidence of the citizens through accountability is critical in combating corruption. Involving the people and ensuring the accessibility of civil society are essential.” Prof. Abdullah emphasized the importance of public officials declaring their assets and ensuring such declarations are verified. He called for the strengthening of regimes to prevent corruption and bring corrupt actors to justice. “Despite the importance of prevention, deterrence remains the best option,” he concluded. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) challenged anti-corruption agencies to go beyond prosecuting financial crimes in the courts and actively engage citizens in the fight against corruption. He stressed the importance of framing corruption in ways that resonate with ordinary Nigerians, particularly at the grassroots level. Chairman of HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, highlighted the need for political will to enforce and implement anti-corruption laws effectively. He emphasized the critical role of civil society, the media, and the public in promoting transparency and pushing for accountability, especially in an environment where politicians might lack the will to pursue anti-corruption agendas. “The only problem we consistently contend with is the commitment and the will to implement the laws. If we can implement 50 percent of the laws in Nigeria, we will be far better than where we are.” He added. The conference included three key sessions: Leveraging Media, Technology, and Civil Society Partnerships to Combat Impunity and Promote Corruption Prevention; promoting Judicial Independence, Rule of Law, and Ethical Leadership for Integrity in Public and Private Sectors; and Enhancing Integrity and Accountability in the Public Sector to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Agencies and Combat Grand Corruption for Sustainable Governance. Participants concluded the conference with a renewed sense of hope and commitment to intensifying efforts to combat corruption, ensuring Nigeria’s leadership in the regional and international arena.

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CategoriesFood security and agriculture HEDA News

IWD 2025: HEDA Reaffirms Commitment to Smallholder Women Farmers

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended women farmers for their tireless efforts in ensuring food security. The organization reaffirms its commitment to advocating for policies and practices that promote the livelihood, health, and well-being of small-scale women farmers. According to Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA, “Women farmers face numerous challenges, including indoor air pollution from traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and firewood, which pose significant health risks. To address this, we will intensify our advocacy for cleaner cooking technologies to promote good health and well-being among women smallholder farmers.” In addition to promoting cleaner cooking technologies, HEDA will prioritize empowering women farmers with critical climate and agrometeorological information. This will enable them to make informed decisions and minimize losses, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable food system.  “We will also collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen market linkages, creating better economic opportunities for women in agriculture. HEDA remains committed to amplifying the voices of women farmers, championing their rights, and pushing for policies that empower them to thrive,” added Arigbabu. By focusing on the specific needs and challenges of women smallholder farmers, HEDA aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food system transformation.

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HEDA Drags National Assembly to Court over Constitutional Breach

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has filed a suit at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, challenging the National Assembly’s alleged breach of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The suit, FHC/L/CS/286/25 filed by Mrs. Fumilayo Falana, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), on behalf of HEDA Resource Centre, seeks the court’s interpretation of Sections 88(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. HEDA Resource Centre is praying the court to declare that the National Assembly is not competent to direct or cause to be directed investigations into any matter without a resolution published in its journal or the Official Gazette of the Government of the Federation. Additionally, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration that the powers of the National Assembly to conduct investigations are exercisable only for the purpose of enabling them to make laws, correct defects in existing laws, expose corruption, inefficiency, or waste in the execution or administration of laws. The civil society organisation is also seeking an order of perpetual injunction restraining the National Assembly from summoning or inviting private persons and representatives of private corporate bodies to appear before them or any of their committees without following the appropriate procedure and purpose under the law.  According to HEDA Resource Centre, the National Assembly has been summoning private persons and representatives of private corporate bodies to appear before its committees without due process, which is a breach of the Constitution. The plaintiff argues that the National Assembly’s investigative powers are not at large and are subject to the provisions of the Constitution. This legal action underscores HEDA Resource Centre’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

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HEDA Joins NiMet, Stakeholders to Unveil 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction February 4

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is set to participate in the highly anticipated unveiling of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025. The event, themed ‘The Role of Early Warnings towards a Climate Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development,’ promises to deliver critical insights into Nigeria’s climatic future. Whereas the NiMet’s SCP is critical for the smooth running of the aviation sector, it is important to note that it is even more critical for other sectors such as agriculture, health, environment, construction, transportation, and maritime etc. Moreover, due to the climate-dependent nature of agriculture in Nigeria and Africa, timely and reliable climate forecasts are essential for food production and hunger eradication. For years, HEDA Resource Centre has leveraged NiMet’s annual SCP to conduct downscale training for farmers across Nigeria. These trainings equip farmers with essential information on how and when to plant their crops to avoid losses due to adverse weather conditions, droughts, and floods. The SCP provides vital forecasts, including the onset and cessation dates of the rainy season, expected rainfall volume, and temperature patterns, which are crucial for guiding agricultural practices and ensuring food security. NiMet’s SCP is a comprehensive climate prediction document that not only benefits agriculture but also impacts various sectors such as aviation, disaster risk management, health, and water resources management. The socioeconomic implications of these forecasts highlight the importance of early warnings in adapting to climate change and building resilience. In conclusion, HEDA commends the Director General/Chief |Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike and his entire team for the annual and timely release of climate data that are critical for food production, public health management and economic diversification.

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Civil Society Organizations Condemn Resumption of Oil Production in Ogoniland

Concerned civil society organizations in the Niger Delta convened at the Port Harcourt office of Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria to discuss a recent invitation extended by the office of the National Security Adviser to the President, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu. The invitation was addressed to selected Ogoni leaders and stakeholders for a private meeting in Abuja to deliberate on the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland. In their deliberations, the organizations expressed strong condemnation of the government’s move, labeling it insensitive and neglectful of the majority will of the Ogoni people. The groups highlighted that any discussion about oil production should involve broad, inclusive consultations rather than select, handpicked leaders. In a statement released by the coalition of civil groups, including Miideekor Environmental Development Initiative, Ogoni Solidarity Forum-Nigeria, South South Youths Initiative, Peoples Advancement Centre, Environmental Rights Action, Kebetkache Women Development Centre, Social Action, Lekeh Development Centre, Rainbowwatch Development Centre, Kalop Environmental Centre, Pilex Centre, and HEDA Resource Centre, unequivocally condemned the planned resumption of oil exploration and production activities in Ogoniland. The statement emphasized that this decision undermines the enduring environmental, social, and economic injustices faced by the Ogoni people and thwarts efforts towards sustainable development and environmental justice. Ogoniland has long been a symbol of severe environmental degradation caused by decades of irresponsible oil exploitation. Reports, including the UNEP Environmental Assessment of Ogoniland of 2011, have documented catastrophic consequences of oil spills, gas flaring, and inadequate remediation efforts, leaving the land, water, and air polluted and affecting the livelihoods and health of the Ogoni people. The civil groups voiced their expectations for the administration to call for a multi-stakeholder meeting in Ogoniland to address the poverty and hunger resulting from environmental degradation. They pointed out that since democracy was restored in 1999, significant issues like June 12 and the Ogoni struggle have plagued the nation. While the government has recognized MKO Abiola as the hero of democracy by conferring a national honor on him, they stressed that it is time to similarly honor Ken Saro-Wiwa as a hero of the environment. Despite numerous calls for justice, the Nigerian government has been slow in implementing the UNEP report recommendations for effective cleanup. The government’s reluctance to contribute to the ongoing cleanup and its blind eye to continuing destructive oil activities were also criticized. The attempt to resume oil extraction in Ogoniland, a region ravaged by environmental neglect, was seen as exacerbating the suffering of the people and violating their right to a safe environment. The coalition demanded the halting of all plans for resumption of oil extraction in Ogoniland until meaningful consultations with the Ogoni people and full remediation of the damaged environment are achieved. They called for a comprehensive cleanup of the Niger Delta region, with substantial funding, and for holding oil companies, particularly Shell, accountable for past environmental damages. They also demanded the exoneration of Ken Saro-Wiwa and other martyrs, the release of the confiscated Ken Saro-Memorial Bus sculpture, and the implementation of strict regulations on oil companies. In closing, the groups reiterated their solidarity with the Ogoni people in their fight for justice, sustainable development, and respect for their rights to a clean and healthy environment. They warned that any attempt to resume oil activities without addressing historical injustices would only deepen the mistrust between the government, oil companies, and local communities, threatening the environment and future generations.

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Sowore Advocates for Reforms to Combat Human Rights Abuses in Nigeria

At the latest session of the HEDA Resource Centre’s monthly advocacy series (MAS) X-Space, Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters, delivered a stark evaluation of the current state of human rights in Nigeria. Speaking on the theme “2024 Review of Human Rights Abuse in Nigeria,” Sowore expressed deep concerns about the alarming regression of human rights in the country, emphasizing that the situation is now worse than during the military rule. Sowore criticized the Nigerian Police Force for prioritizing the suppression of legitimate human rights activism over combating crime. He highlighted daily violations of freedom of speech and pointed out the widespread harassment of citizens both online and offline by law enforcement. He cited numerous instances of disregard for court orders and lamented the plight of the 48,000 individuals awaiting trial, most of whom are poor. “Nigeria is in a state of absolute impunity,” he stated, adding, “A state where those responsible for law and order feel exempt from the rule of law themselves.” Sowore painted a vivid picture of a legal system that selectively targets the poor while allowing the powerful to evade justice. He likened Nigerian law to a cobweb that entraps only the weak, leaving the powerful untouched. The Sahara Reporter’s publisher condemned the government’s efforts to stifle freedom of speech, tracing this issue back to the Jonathan administration’s introduction of the Cyber Crime Act. “Initially aimed at combating internet fraud, the act has been misused to suppress dissent. Despite the repeal of Section 24, law enforcement continues to enforce it.” Sowore also noted the government’s failed attempts to pass social media laws and their continued use of outdated laws to target activists. Sowore emphasized the economic impact of these human rights violations, particularly how the internet has become a crucial economic hub for many Nigerians. He argued that the suppression of free speech not only affects physical freedoms but also destroys economic livelihoods and stifles creativity and democratic participation. Expressing concern over the diminishing role of civil society organizations, Sowore questioned their commitment to defending human rights and demanding good governance. He criticized the complacency and collaboration of some civil society groups with the authorities, undermining their effectiveness. Sowore called on Nigerian citizens to challenge the government both online and in person. He stressed that the government itself is often the primary source of fake news and that its duty is to tell the truth about its actions. In his concluding remarks, Sowore urged for renewed efforts towards genuine law enforcement and respect for human rights in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of free speech in fostering democracy and creativity in any society. The session concluded with a call to action for civil society organizations to step up their efforts in defending human rights and for citizens to remain vigilant and active in the fight for justice.

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