Amnesty International (AI) has called on the Nigerian government to demand that Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC) conducts a comprehensive assessment of existing pollution and the current state of its infrastructure before the sale of its onshore oil business in Nigeria. AI’s Head of Business and Human Rights, Mark Dummett, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, urging Shell to ensure that its withdrawal does not lead to negative human rights and environmental consequences.
For decades, oil spills in the Niger Delta have adversely affected the health and livelihoods of local communities. In response to Shell’s agreement to sell its Nigerian onshore oil business for over $1.3 billion to a consortium of local companies, AI emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns of affected communities and providing effective remedies for human rights abuses.
The human rights organization urged the Nigerian government to play a proactive role in safeguarding the rights of its citizens, including the right to an adequate standard of living, clean water, and health. AI’s call for a thorough environmental assessment reflects concerns about the potential impact of the sale on the local environment and communities.
As Shell proceeds with the historic shift of selling its onshore oil business in Nigeria, the call for a comprehensive assessment aligns with global efforts to hold corporations accountable for their environmental and human rights responsibilities. The outcome of this advocacy will likely influence the conditions and terms of the sale, emphasizing the need for responsible business practices in the extractive industry.
