Just a simple advice which may turn things around for all concerned. Let the parliamentarians and shareholders from the home countries of ALL companies operating in the Niger Delta send separate fact-finding teams to the region in July and August respectively. Such delegations should be very balanced and high-powered, so that their reports and recommendations may be promptly and sincerely actionable.
For effect, this step must be independent of our governments and the managements of such firms. They've had their day! The idea is to ensure that fresh, smart, creative and courageous interventions come on stream - in addition to any local actions or interventions.
When it's all said and done, the United Nations should be interested in the matter. The crises are affecting oil prices and energy costs worldwide. And compounding the plights of poor countries in very debilitating ways. This is a classic case of Private Wealth vs World Poverty. Composite and concerted ACTION is now absolutely due, and dire.
The same manner big business is stepping up to the plate on the global warming matter in the United States, despite White House opposition/inertia, is how the oil companies must respond to the Niger Delta Question - in spite of all official odds and hurdles. No excuses.
What a sensitive and sensible strategy for all concerned as we open a new chapter in Nigeria's democratic governance from May 2007!
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