Conflict and Resource Politic in Nigeria Oil: A Historical Analysis of the Ogoni Struggle, (1990-2001)

Abstract

This paper investigates the historical evolution of the Ogoni crisis, 1990-2001 within Nigeria’s Oil rich Niger Delta region. Drawing from archival sources, secondary literature and oral testimonies, the study examines the interplay between environmental degradation, state-corporate alliances and grassroots mobilization spearheaded by “the movement for the survival of Ogoni peoples’ (MOSOP). The paper argues that the Ogoni struggle mark a turning point in Nigeria human rights and resource control discourse, highlighting the nexus between environmental justice, ethnic identity and democratization. Findings underscore the enduring implication of Oil related conflicts for equity and sustainable development in Nigeria. The multi-international oil company failed to implement social amenities and economic enterprise to cushion the hazardous pollution of the ecological system of the Niger Delta environments. While the Nigeria government suppress any form of resistance from the oil region area even if legitimate with no iota to alleviate the suffering of the peoples. As the oil pillage and toxins polluted the aquatics life and the land; the indigenous elites like Ken Sara Wiwa and others organized themselves to fight for their survival. This led to the formation of Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People (MOSOP) in 1990. Their request and agitation center on the facts that they were not adequately compensated for their lands. As the struggles continue Ogoni leaders were secretly murdered by unknown gun men in 1994 and this state of affairs was used to arrest Ken Saro Wiwa. So that by 1995, he and his cohorts were murdered by Abacha regime on the allegation of masterminding the killings of Ogoni citizens.  By 2001, MOSOP complaint to the Oputa panel for the injustice melted to their siblings. It is pathetic that despite their petition the government of Nigeria only pays a lips service to the conditions of Ogoni up to date.