Hold Polluters Accountable: Experts Urge Climate Litigation Action for a Sustainable Future – EnviroNews

Environmental activists and legal experts in Nigeria are uniting to demand better environmental accountability. They believe it’s time for citizens to use the current constitutional amendment process to push for updates to environmental laws. Many feel the current system grants too much control to the federal government, neglecting communities deeply affected by pollution from oil and gas.

During a recent event organized by the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN) in collaboration with the Nigeria Chambers of the International Law Association and Chima Williams and Associates in Benin City, these concerns were voiced loud and clear.

The discussions addressed the serious effects of climate change on local communities, emphasizing how polluting corporations exploit Nigeria’s resources while the constitution limits local advocacy. Barr. Chima Williams, EDEN’s Executive Director, highlighted that the Nigerian constitution places control over oil resources solely in federal hands. This structure prevents state governments and citizens from pushing for accountability in environmental matters.

He stated, “The constitution’s exclusive control over petroleum resources denies local legislatures and courts the ability to address related issues, further weakening environmental protections.”

Comrade Alagoa Morris, EDEN’s Deputy Executive Director, discussed the challenges faced by communities in the Niger Delta as climate change worsens. He mentioned that severe flooding in 2022 forced farmers to adapt quickly just to maintain food security. He also pointed out how military operations and surveillance contractors exacerbate pollution, affecting clean air and water in the region.

Morris noted, “While lawyers often support communities in seeking justice, we lack enough scientific research to bolster these cases. This gap allows companies to evade responsibility despite evidence of harm.”

The role of media was also a topic of discussion. Philip Jakpor of EDEN emphasized that the media must effectively communicate the impacts of climate change on everyday life, connecting these stories to broader economic concerns. He urged for coverage that highlights how different groups, especially women and children, are affected by climate-related issues.

Maimoni Ubrei-Joe, EDEN’s Director of Climate and Energy Justice, stressed the importance of accountability across all sectors. He called for a focus on genuine climate action rather than temporary fixes like geoengineering or carbon markets.

Dr. Eghosa Ekhator, an Associate Professor of International and Environmental Law, commented on the effectiveness of climate laws in Nigeria. He noted that marginalized communities feel the brunt of climate change. He encouraged civil society organizations to empower locals to pursue legal avenues for environmental justice.

The gathering saw participation from various groups, including civil organizations, women’s networks, and legal practitioners, all eager to bring about change.

Recent statistics show that Nigeria has faced a significant uptick in environmental crises, with surveys revealing that over 60% of Nigerians are concerned about the impact of pollution on their health and livelihood. This growing awareness reflects a broader social media trend where citizens advocate for environmental reforms, emphasizing the need for collective action.

Given these dynamics, the push for legislative change is not just about laws; it’s about forging a path toward a more sustainable and equitable future for all Nigerians.



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Accountability,Climate Litigation,Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN),Environmental experts