Agitation for Resource Control in the Niger Delta: The Need for Alternative Development Strategy

Abstract

The Niger Delta region occupies a crucial position in Nigeria in that it produces crude oil which is the mainstay of the economy. Due to the exploitation of the oil and environmental degradation there have been agitations by the inhabitants of the region for resource control. This agitation in recent times took a violent dimension with the killing of security personnel and taking of foreign oil workers as hostages. This development has implications for the political stability in Nigeria as well as its socio-economic survival. There is therefore a need for alternative strategies for the resolution of the conflict. The aim of this study therefore is to assess the nature of the agitation for resource control with a view to finding acceptable solutions. In achieving the goal, primary data were collected through the administration of structured questionnaire and unstructured interview. , developed by the researcher on 150 stakeholders in the region all of whom were purposively selected. Library sources also provided secondary data for the study. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and quantitative approaches. Findings reveal that agitation for resource control is rooted in the political history of the nation as demonstrated by Willink Commission report and the Post Independence Constitution of the Country which allowed region to control their resources within their jurisdiction. Findings further reveal that the existing revenue sharing formula in the country was perceived to favour certain sections of the country to the detriment of the region. This prompted the conclusion that inequity or imbalance in sharing the proceeds from oil is central to the agitations. It was accordingly among other recommendations that Government should adopt and operate Federalism especially the fiscal aspect in a way that region should control their resources while paying royalties to the Centre. The Constitution therefore needs to be amended.