INTERROGATING ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTIONS IN THE NIGER DELTA THROUGH ADVOCACY COMMUNCICATION

Abstract

Environmental pollution is a planetary problem which has continued to elicit international and local actions aimed at remediating it. The Niger Delta region of Nigeria, due to over 70 years of oil exploration, is a hub of environmental pollution in great proportion. This situation affects aquatic and human lives on daily basis, raising the issue of social injustice in the region. Methods: The paper adopts library research method in gathering secondary data from books, journals, newspapers and other academically relevant sources, in stressing the role of advocacy journalism in raising awareness and championing for cessation in actions that cause environmental pollution in the Niger Delta. The paper is equally guided by three research questions and a theory known as Risk Society Theory. Results: The paper ascertained that despite oil exploration activity in the Niger Delta region and wealth emanating fromit which Nigeria largely relies on for its economic and political relevance among the comity of nations, many communities in the area and the people lack social amenities. Conclusion: This portrays social injustice. The paper, therefore, sues for actions by government and multinationals in addressing environmental pollution in the Niger Delta and provide social, economic and political infrastructures that will ameliorate the plights of the people.