Oil on Troubled Waters- Multinational Corporations and Realising Human Rights in the Developing World: A Nigerian Case Study.

Hakeem O. Yusuf, University of Glasgow

Abstract

This article examines the current state of tension in the Niger Delta of Nigeria. It locates the current unrest in the continued denial of economic, social and cultural rights to the oil-rich communities in the area. I argue that this has been done with the complicity and/or acquiescence of the international community. The Nigerian government as well as multi-national corporations operating in the area have not been responsive to the development needs of the people. The article argues that, although the primary obligation for realising the economic, social and cultural rights of host communities rests on the government, multi-national corporations in developing countries, considering their awesome resources and influence on government policies, should be similarly obligated to respect, promote and protect those rights.