By Obiabin Onukwugha
As rights activists persist in their efforts to restore ecosystems in the Niger Delta and other regions impacted by mining and exploration activities, attention is turning towards the crucial task of conserving ecosystems and wildlife species through the identification and training of eco-defenders.
The safety of activists and eco-defenders is also a paramount concern since they often face various risks in the course of their work.
During a recent Roundtable Session organized by Access Africa for Rights and Development Initiative, Kentiebe Ebiaridor, the Programme Manager for Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), described environmental defenders as individuals deeply passionate and committed to preserving the environment.
They are also dedicated to reporting on and monitoring environmental events on a daily basis.
Ebiaridor emphasized that illegal mining and logging constitute crimes against nature and equate to environmental theft. He stressed the importance of preserving wildlife, noting that nature is inherently designed for mutual complementarity.
He stated, “No matter how you look at it, illegal logging or illegal mining amounts to environmental theft. Therefore, having environmental defenders spread across various communities where resource extraction and other natural activities take place will create a safer environment and protect the diverse species and biodiversity of the Niger Delta.”
Ebiaridor added, “Conserving wildlife is possible. While local communities often rely on these resources for their livelihoods and income, we must recognize that we inhabit a single planet. Our world is teeming with diverse species, many of which, according to reports from around the world, face the risk of extinction daily.”
He continued, “If we allow certain species within our environment to go extinct due to economic gains, we disrupt the delicate balance of ecosystems, where each component supports the others.”
Discussing further, Ebiaridor addressed the issue of “evil forests” in some communities, which are often seen as contributing to the preservation of certain plant and animal species.
He suggested that the conversation should focus on conserving natural resources, given the ongoing exploration and exploitation activities.
Dr. David Vareba, the Executive Director of Access Africa for Rights and Development Initiative, shed light on the purpose of the session.
He explained that it was necessary to build the capacity of community members to monitor their environment and ensure the safety of individuals engaged in environmental protection.
Vareba stated, “The reason for this meeting is the escalating threat to the environment. Apart from the ongoing cleanup in Ogoni, we are witnessing an increase in oil spills, rising artisanal refining, and a surge in wildlife and forest crimes.”
He continued, “That’s why we believe there is a need to train environmental defenders. We have identified and trained them, aligning our efforts with HOMEF’s activities. We are utilizing these eco-defenders to collect and report data. However, eco-defenders often face risks in the field. We need to address the risks they encounter, develop strategies for their safety, and establish protocols for seeking assistance in times of imminent danger. These are the key objectives of today’s roundtable session.”