The Economic Impact of Crude Oil Spill on Cassava Production in Olodiama Clan, Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study empirically examines the economic impact of crude oil spills on cassava production in Olodiama Clan, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. This research study employed a well-structured questionnaire as the main instrument in collecting data from the one hundred and seventy (170) respondents. In addition, this study employed two approaches in the analysis of data: descriptive and inferential analysis. Appropriate tables and figures were utilized in analyzing the data collected. From the results, it was concluded that oil spillage had given rise to unproductive soil, thereby killing the people’s interest in cassava farming and other agricultural activities. It also came to light that the oil spillage had affected the socio-economic activities of the people, thereby causing negative relationship between the oil companies and the host communities in the study area. Furthermore, the results of the regression analyses indicated that crude oil spills had a negative and statistically significant effect on cassava production in consonance with a priori expectations. Based on the results of the findings, some recommendations were made. One of the recommendations is that the government at all levels and oil companies must ensure realistic steps at enacting and enforcing strict environmental laws that will protect the oil pipeline from explosion and as well as guaranteeing the people a better means of livelihood.