Advocacy group urges finalisation of $24 billion compensation for environmental restoration.
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure that Shell addresses its environmental and human rights obligations in the Niger Delta. HEDA emphasises the need for Shell to finalise the proposed $24 billion compensation for comprehensive cleanup and remediation of the region.
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) has called upon President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action in holding Shell accountable for its environmental and human rights responsibilities in the Niger Delta. The organisation stresses the urgency of finalising the proposed $24 billion compensation to facilitate thorough cleanup and remediation efforts in the affected communities.
HEDA’s appeal aligns with concerns raised by various civil society organisations regarding the environmental degradation and human rights abuses attributed to oil exploration activities in the region. These groups have consistently urged the Nigerian government to ensure that international oil companies, particularly Shell, address the significant environmental and social liabilities resulting from their operations.
In previous communications, coalitions of local and international civil society organisations have petitioned the Nigerian government to resist pressure from oil companies seeking to divest their onshore assets without adequately addressing the environmental damage caused. They argue that allowing such divestments without proper remediation measures would exacerbate the existing challenges faced by Niger Delta communities.
HEDA’s recent call reinforces the necessity for the government to prioritise the well-being of the Niger Delta populace by ensuring that Shell fulfils its obligations. The organisation advocates for a transparent and accountable process that guarantees the allocation of the $24 billion compensation towards effective environmental restoration and the improvement of living conditions in the region.
As the situation develops, stakeholders and concerned citizens await the government’s response to these pressing demands for environmental justice and corporate accountability in the Niger Delta.
