NIGERIA
Under the onslaught of international criticism, Shell Nigeria, the Anglo-Dutch oil giant which had perpetrated one of the worst environmental crimes in Ogoniland, is trying desperately to redeem its image. As a first step toward reconciliation with local leaders, It has proposed to clean up all oil spills in Ogoniland and restart local development projects in the troubled territory on the condition of safety. Said Brian Anderson, managing director, Shell Nigeria, "All we need to start the process is the assurance of all Ogoni communities that our staff can work safely in Ogoniland." The company had to pull down its shutters in Ogoniland three years ago after its staff was threatened and its plants were attacked by sections of the Ogoni movement, mosop. They blamed Shell of causing serious damage to the environment. The movement snowballed into a big controversy climaxing with the hanging of Ken Saro-Wiwa and nine other Ogonis (Down To Earth, Vol 4, No 14).
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