The implication of oil pollution for the enjoyment of sexual and reproductive rights of women in Niger Delta area of Nigeria
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Date
2013
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Taylor & Francis
Abstract
Oil is a major source of income for Nigeria and it is the mainstay of the country’s
economy. Nigeria’s intensive oil sector accounts for nearly 40% of its gross domestic
product, but declined steadily to an average of 14.71% of the country’s total export
between 2006 and 20111; and contributed about 80% of budgetary revenues that all
tiers of government heavily depend on.2 Oil spills and gas flaring are some of the
effects of the unregulated exploratory activities of the oil multinational companies
that have contributed immensely to the physical and mental illness of the local
inhabitants of the Niger Delta region and violated most of their rights as guaranteed
under international and regional human rights instruments and the Constitution of the
Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) 1999. In view of the growing threats
to human health and the environment (posed by human activities), the international
community has agreed to a number of treaties to respond to the health and human
rights challenges posed by environmental degradation. Although Nigeria is a party to
most of these instruments,3 it has done little or nothing to regulate the conduct of the
oil companies that negatively impact on the health of the Niger Delta people. While
the impact of oil extraction affects both men and women, the article focuses on its
implications for women’s reproductive well-being. This is because women are a
disadvantaged and marginalised group and have continued to experience
discriminatory practices in many parts of the country, including the Niger Delta area.
The article discusses the health challenges associated with oil exploitation in the
Niger Delta, paying attention to the position of women. It then proffers suggestions
on measures and steps that could be taken by the Nigerian government and other
stakeholders in ensuring the adequate protection of the health rights of local inhabitants.
Description
Keywords
Oil, Exploitation, Health, Niger Delta, Women
Citation
Oluduro, O. & Durojaye, E. (2013). The implications of oil pollution for the enjoyment of sexual and reproductive rights of women in Niger Delta are of Nigeria. The International Journal of Human Rights, 17(7-8): 772-795