Niger delta people vs. Nigeria: a missed occasion before the ECOWAS court of justice

The aim of this paper is to analyse the main contents of the decision Osaghae et al. v Nigeria who applied to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Court of justice. The case is relevant because it aims at seeking justice for the serious violations of human rights in Nigeria related to the environmental degradation caused by the unethical exploitation of resources by oil companies. The Plaintiffs alleged the violations of several of their human rights enshrined in international legal instrument which regarded, amongst others, equality, right to self-determination, right to economic, social and cultural development and the right to a general and satisfactory environment. Even though the case was dismissed by the Court because of the lack of locus standi of the Plaintiffs, since they aimed at representing the whole population of Niger Delta People, and the insufficient proofs attached, we consider this application relevant because it brings back to our attention how the situation in Niger Deltais still characterized by numerous violations of human rights committed by national and multinational oil companies. Also, we consider it important since it seeks justice and respect for the human right to a healthy environment.