An Appraisal of the Social- Legal Dynamics of Conflicts in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

Abstract

The peculiar position and significance of the Niger Delta region to the economic and political stability of Nigeria is self-evident. As the region with the largest deposit of crude oil and gas which is the mainstay of the economy, the Niger Delta necessarily occupies a central place in the economic destiny of the country. It is pedestrian that the exploration and exploitation of crude oil is now a common phenomenon in the area and the presence of numerous oil locations and gas flare points all over the region is a clear confirmation of the prevalence of oil related activities in the Niger Delta. This paper examines the various types and causes of conflicts pervading the Niger Delta Region till date and notes that unless there is equitable distribution of the proceeds of the petroleum sector and a buy-in of the relevant stakeholders, the drivers of the conflict ravaging the region will continue to thrive.