Environmental workers face alarming levels of violence and intimidation, particularly in Nigeria, where their crucial work protecting natural resources and the planet often puts them in grave danger. Most attacks on these defenders remain hidden from the public eye as many fear reporting such incidents due to threats against their lives, families, and property. Environmental defenders often clash with polluters, land grabbers, and powerful multinational corporations, leading to fierce resistance from those whose interests are threatened.
One of the most poignant examples of this conflict is the tragic story of Ken Saro-Wiwa, the renowned Niger Delta activist. He passionately opposed the environmental degradation and exploitation of the Niger Delta by oil companies, ultimately sacrificing his life for the cause. His death underscores the severe risks faced by environmental defenders in Nigeria, where a history of violence, kidnapping, torture, and even murder against these advocates is well-documented.
Read more on Ken Saro-Wiwa here
In various regions of Nigeria, from the land grabbers in the southwest to the Fulani herders in the north, and the oil companies in the Niger Delta, environmental defenders are frequently harassed. These defenders, including staff from the Sustainable Environment Food and Agriculture Initiative (SEFAAI) in Lagos, have experienced numerous attacks. According to a high-ranking official from SEFAAI, who wishes to remain anonymous, their team has been repeatedly targeted. This individual recounted being physically threatened by prominent plastics producers while the organization was pushing for legal action against plastic pollution. Their phones were bugged, and they were followed by unknown individuals. A government official even advised them to abandon their efforts, warning that polluters would stop at nothing to eliminate obstacles.
These threats are a common part of the daily routine for many environmental workers. Recently, the same SEFAAI source reported that their home was attacked by agents of disgruntled polluters following a clean air campaign to mark the 2024 Clean Air Awareness Week. The campaign highlighted the role of industrial emissions in poor air quality, particularly in areas like Ikorodu. This incident illustrates the constant danger faced by those advocating for environmental protection.
The challenges are not limited to air quality campaigns. SEFAAI has also faced fierce opposition while mediating land disputes between farmers, Fulani herders, and land grabbers in Oyo State and Lagos’s suburb of Imota. The intensity of the reactions forced some members to relocate for safety. Similarly, an environmental rights activist from Connected Advocacy, who wished to remain anonymous, shared a harrowing experience of being harassed by community elders benefiting from environmental pollution. These elders, in collaboration with militants loyal to oil companies, detained and beat the activists for mobilizing protests against oil spills and gas flaring.
In light of these threats, Mr. Clifford Edevie, Executive Director of the Clean Climate and Environment Campaign Initiative, has called for greater protection for environmental activists. He urged police authorities to take violent attacks against these professionals seriously and to punish perpetrators accordingly. Edevie emphasized the importance of public awareness, suggesting that an increased understanding of environmental issues would lead to greater appreciation for the vital work of environmentalists.
The plight of environmental defenders in Nigeria is a stark reminder of the broader global struggle to protect our planet. These individuals are on the frontlines, facing immense personal risk to safeguard our natural resources and promote sustainable development. Their stories highlight the urgent need for stronger protections and greater public support for those dedicated to environmental advocacy.
By raising awareness of these issues and supporting environmental defenders, we can help ensure that they continue their vital work without fear of violence and intimidation. Their efforts are crucial in the global fight against environmental degradation and climate change, and they deserve our unwavering support and protection.
See our publication “A Call to Action for Biodiversity”
Click here to see ‘Who is an Environmental Defender?’
