HUMAN RIGHT VIOLATIONS AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH CONDITION OF SELECTED PERSONS RESIDENT IN OIL PRODUCING COMMUNITIES IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Background: The exploration of rich human and natural resources in Delta State degrades the soil, violate human right, as well as inflict degenerative health challenges on surrounding communities especially the slum dwellers.Objective: The study has two core objectives. First, it highlighted human right violations and environmental health condition of selected slum dwellers in oil producing communities in Delta State. Secondly, it examined the attitudes of multinational companies and the government in mediating the consequences of the explorative activities.Methodology: Explanation of core variables of study was anchored on Conflict and Development theories, as well as Health Belief Model. A total of 400 participants were sampled. Instruments of data collection and analysis were triangulated. Thus, data were gathered using questionnaire and the interview. However, quantitative data were analyzed with simple percentages, while chi-square was used to test hypotheses and content analysis applied to qualitative data.Results: Findings revealed that there are wide spread evidence of oil spillage and gas flaring,condition which destroys the peoples source of livelihood, as well as altering their state of health.Concerned authorities, particularly multinational companies and the government have consistently failed to put in place measures that will ameliorate the challenges of environmental degradation and deterioration of health. Thus, dwellers suffer human right violations with an environment replete with decay and high rate of crime. They suffer severe depression, high blood pressure and seizures due to consumption of contaminated substances along with their food, herbs and water.Conclusion: The study concludes that, there is human right violations and poor environmental health condition of slum dwellers in oil producing communities in Delta Stat. These situations degenerate due to oil exploration. The lukewarm attitudes of multinational companies and the government in mediating the consequences of explorative activities amount to human right violation punishable by law. Unfulfilled expectations shape the attitudes of the slum dwellers and most aggrieved agitators.Unique Contribution: The study detailed the predicament of some slum dwellers. Findings will guide policy makers in the formulation and execution of oil exploration and environmental related policies