Nigerian King Battles Oil Giant for Environmental Justice in Bayelsa

Bubaraye Dakolo, the monarch of Ekpetiama in Bayelsa State, is leading a fight against Shell plc for environmental justice amid severe ecological degradation in Nigerias Niger Delta region.

Bubaraye Dakolo, a former soldier and current monarch of Ekpetiama, is advocating for environmental health in Bayelsa State, highlighting the drastic decline in local fish catches due to oil pollution.
Shell plc announced its decision to divest from onshore operations in Nigeria earlier this year, prompting local leaders like Dakolo to challenge the companys environmental practices in the Niger Delta.
The persistent issue of oil spills and inadequate pipeline transport infrastructure has exacerbated environmental degradation in Bayelsa State, impacting the livelihoods of local fishermen and the health of the ecosystem.

Why It Matters

This battle for environmental justice reflects the ongoing struggles of communities in Nigeria against the adverse effects of petroleum extraction, emphasizing the need for corporate accountability in the Niger Deltas ecological crisis.