Oil Conflict in Nigeria

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Oil Conflict in Nigeria

Introduction

This paper will discuss the Oil conflict that is occurring in Nigeria. Discussed will be the types of power that the two feuding parties are using and whether their strategies have been effective as well as the influence they have had on the conflict. The contrasting cultural differences and similarities will be discussed as well. The conflict in Nigeria has turned deadly and a successful communication environment must be developed in order to restore peace to the region.

The oil conflict in Nigeria consists primarily of two parties the oil companies and the local interests. The conflict has turned deadly as individuals have protested through violence their frustration for what they believe to be an injustice. The locals believe that the oil companies owe them rent for land use. The oil companies have been avoiding land use fees by using government resources to their advantage.

The oil companies are using a structured power approach while addressing the land use issues with the locals. The oil companies use formal authority, legal prerogative, and association to strengthen their side of the conflict. The Nigerian government has a history of being influenced by foreign money and influence, which gives big business a huge advantage over monetary decisions. The Nigerian government has gone as far as creating laws and legislation to benefit the oil companies because of the significant economic contributions the companies bring to the country. Omeje (2005) states “Oil is the mainstay of Nigeria’s economy and the state is largely dependent on oil rents, taxes and royalties paid by transnational oil companies (TNOCs) and on profits from its equity stakes in the TNOCs’ investments.”

The struct...

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