Communication Strategies in Resolving Environmental Conflicts between Shell and Her Host Communities (Ogoni Land)

Abstract

he environmental conflicts between Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and the Ogoni villages in Rivers State, Nigeria, are the result of decades of environmental deterioration, socioeconomic inequality, and poor corporate-community relations. This research investigated Shell's communication tactics for resolving these issues and evaluated how far Shell has gone in promoting peace and sustainable development. Data were gathered using a questionnaire, interviews, and focus group discussions with Shell personnel, community leaders, and Ogoni inhabitants. Taro Yamane's technique was used to choose a sample of around 400 responders from a population of more than 2,000,000. The questionnaire and interview schedule were employed as research instruments for data collection in this study. This study used a purposive sample strategy, and the data acquired was analyzed quantitatively using frequency tables. The study found that while Shell used communication strategies/campaigns, CSR activities, and stakeholder interactions, these efforts were hampered by a lack of openness, inclusion, and cultural sensitivity, which perpetuated distrust and conflict. The report advocated, among other things, participatory communication and trust-building activities to strengthen corporate- community interactions and support long-term development in Ogoni Land.