Amnesty International Demands Shell Account for Niger Delta Pollution in New Report
Amnesty International and seven partners released a report Wednesday alleging Shell knew of serious pipeline integrity failures in Nigeria's Niger Delta, exempted its Nigerian subsidiary from safety standards, and delayed decommissioning ageing facilities despite acknowledging environmental risks. The report 'Nigeria: Lifting the Lid' analyses confidential Shell emails and technical audits from ongoing UK litigation filed by Ogale and Bille communities in 2015.
According to the report, Shell's failures include basket pipelines, missing wells, and pollution damaging 375 km² of mangrove forests, water sources, farmland and fisheries. The groups allege Shell chose to divest its onshore business rather than face an estimated $10.9 billion decommissioning cost, attempting to transfer pollution liabilities to communities or buyers. Shell denies wrongdoing, stating it is 'committed to honesty and integrity'.
The report details ongoing harm: Bille community residents report subterranean toxic gas emissions and disappearing aquatic life. Partners demand Nigeria overhaul oil sector regulation, implement transparent audits for operational and retired assets, and create a properly resourced Niger Delta restoration fund. They also urge UK and Dutch authorities to investigate whether Shell misled shareholders about its operations and liabilities. The Bille case is scheduled for hearing in March 2027.