Oil Pollution and Bio-Diversity Conservation in Nigeria: An Assessment of Legal Framework

Abstract

Oil pollution distorts aquatic life which not only destroys the source of livelihood of fishers, but also causes a shortage of supply of sea food. It destroys the fertile soil, which not only makes it difficult for the farmer to farm as a means of livelihood, but also the supply of agricultural produce is reduced as a result of poor crop yields. Man’s existence is not only threatened by the shortage of food, his health is also in peril as a consequence of the adverse effects of oil pollution on the eco system. This article deals with effects of oil pollution on biological diversity in Nigeria. It espouses the legal regime of oil pollution and biological diversity conservation in Nigeria. The article highlights threatened components of the country’s biological diversity and the measures taken by the government to control and check the activities of oil companies in a bid to ensure that they abide by best practices for the conservation of the country’s biological diversity. This article recommended that there needs to be a collective effort of the government, Petroleum Companies and host communities to ensure that Nigeria’s Bio – diversities is conserved. The article established that Bio – diversity is the true essence of natural life, however, oil pollution can cause the total destruction of this natural life. Hence, the need to conserve Bio – diversity.