Petroleum Spills and Accidental Discharges in the Niger Delta: A Literature Review

Abstract

This study examines the impact of petroleum spills and accidental discharges in the Niger Delta. Its adverse effects as seen on the terrestrial ecosystem, shorelines, aquatic ecosystem, our coral reef, destruction of our mangroves, depletion and extinction of many other sea life forms. Oil spillage, which often results from operational discharges of petroleum into the environment, is now a global issue that has been since the discovery of Crude Oil. The Niger Delta has experienced several disasters from oil blowouts; according to estimates, over 2,567,960 barrels of crude oil have been spilt in 5733 incidents in the Niger Delta from 1976-2000 549,060 barrels were recovered while 1,820 barrels were lost to the environment. Contamination of the marine ecology associated with oil spills and occupational discharges of petroleum, if not effectively checked, can lead to degradation of the mangrove forests area, destruction of ecology, rapid decline in the fish and agricultural produces that are central to the livelihoods of local communities.