A coalition of civil society organizations has expressed support for the House of Representatives’ decision to suspend the ongoing divestment of oil and gas assets by International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. The coalition, led by Botti Isaac of Social Action Integrated Centre (Social Action) and including leaders from various other groups, voiced their concerns at a press conference in Abuja on Sunday.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Isaac highlighted worries about the federal government’s plan to swiftly approve the IOCs’ divestment without adequate assessment. The coalition stressed the potential risks and negative impacts associated with the divestment process.
“We call for a halt to divestment given the significant risks and concerns associated with this divestment,” Isaac stated. “The Nigerian authorities should not approve any further divestment until a comprehensive and transparent framework, acceptable to the governments of the Niger Delta states, affected communities, labor, and civil society observers, is established. This framework must address all environmental, industrial relations, and social liabilities to the satisfaction of all stakeholders, including affected communities.”
The coalition emphasized the need for accountability regarding the historical environmental damages caused by companies like Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and other IOCs, as well as the ongoing pollution from oil operations. They argued that the transition of asset ownership should not undermine local communities’ ability to seek justice and redress for these damages.
“The asset ownership transition must not diminish local communities’ capacity to seek redress and justice,” Isaac added. “The distressing experiences of communities such as Oloibiri, Nembe, Umuechem, Ogoniland, Rumuekpe, and others underscore the urgent need for a divestment process that prioritizes environmental restoration and social equity.”
The coalition’s stance underscores the critical need for a cautious and well-regulated approach to oil and gas asset divestment in the Niger Delta, ensuring that the interests and well-being of the local communities are safeguarded.