Destroying to Destroy: Militancy and Environmental Degradation in the Niger Delta

Abstract

The article focuses on the role of militants in compounding the problem of environmental degradation in the Niger Delta region in Nigeria. The activities of the oil multinationals destroyed the environment and triggered the emergence of activists poised to reversing this state of affairs. However, Niger Delta militants, as part of their agitation, have employed tactics that further worsen the situation. Thus, tactics such as bombings, vandalism, arson, brigandage, kidnappings, and the establishment of illegal refineries are a way of provoking the oil corporations and the Nigerian state. These tactics bring money to the militants, but cause further environmental degradation of the area.