The Niger Delta region has long been plagued by environmental degradation, social injustice, and economic disparity. Women, in particular, have borne the brunt of these challenges, often being excluded from decision-making processes and denied their rightful place in the management of natural resources. However, a recent training session organized by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has provided a platform for these women to voice their concerns and demand justice.
The three-day interactive session, supported by the Ford Foundation, brought together women stakeholders from various communities in the Niger Delta region. The participants, including women leaders, female traditional rulers, market women leaders, women groups, people living with disabilities, female journalists, and women activists, shared their experiences and struggles in promoting transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources.
One of the participants, Mrs. Naamon Grace from K-Dere community in Gokana LGA, narrated her ordeal, highlighting the struggles women face in accessing family inheritance and participating in decision-making processes. She recalled the days of activism, particularly during the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), where women played a crucial role in mounting protests and advocating for their community’s rights. However, despite their contributions, women were often marginalized and excluded from the benefits of their struggles.
Another participant, Peace Mgbenwa from Okwuisi community in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, lamented the lack of representation and inclusion of women in leadership positions. She noted that women leaders were often selected without consultation, and their interests were not represented. Mgbenwa, however, expressed hope that the training would empower women to demand their rights and participate more effectively in decision-making processes.
Martha Egbe, President of the Voice of Eleme Women Association, also shared her community’s struggles. Despite the presence of over 400 companies operating in Eleme, women are often excluded from benefits, except for those with political connections. Egbe highlighted the devastating impact of pollution on their livelihoods, particularly in farming and fishing. She appealed to SERAP to support their quest for justice and inclusion.
In response to the women’s pleas, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, pledged the organization’s support for women seeking justice and redress for unfair treatments. He assured the participants that SERAP’s lawyers would take note of their concerns and work towards addressing them.
The training also highlighted the need for legal literacy and economic empowerment for women in rural communities. Lead Research Consultant, Emilia Okon, emphasized the importance of using women-led and trusted platforms to provide legal aid in local languages. Constance Meju, a veteran journalist and activist, called for intensive sensitization to address the “money, political, and legal illiteracy” that women suffer from in society.
The participants at the training came from six states in the Niger Delta region, including Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers. Their stories and struggles serve as a testament to the need for greater inclusion and justice in the management of natural resources. SERAP’s efforts to empower these women and support their quest for justice are a step in the right direction.
