Moral Implications of Oil Exploration in the Niger-Delta Region of Nigeria: A Search for Human and Environmental Justice In e Light of the Teachings of John Paul II

Abstract

The contrast between the ‘pre-oil’1 and the present environmental situation of the Niger- Delta region of Nigeria necessitates urgent attention. In fifty years, the region has gone from an environment high in biodiversity, characterised by fresh swamp forests, mangroves, and lowland rainforests, to an environmentally barren wasteland. This paper explores the moral dimension of oil exploration in the Niger-Delta region. Using the teachings of John Paul II who identified ecological crises as a moral problem, the paper shows how ‘sin’ against the environment is connected to ‘sin’ against human dignity. It proposes ecological conversion to the major players involved in the destruction of the pristine eco-systems in the region and the reckless abuse of human rights that goes with it. The aim is to foster a humane condition for oil exploration that would heed the basic principles for sustainable environmental management, and respect the dignity of the human person