A Niger Delta rights activist, Austin Ozobo, has criticised the Federal Government for prioritising revenue from fines over ending gas flaring in the region.
Ozobo shared his views during an interview at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel.
“Government is only interested in fines they’re getting instead of stopping the gas flaring,” he said, adding that authorities value the money more than the lives of those affected.
According to him, oil companies are comfortable paying the fines and continuing with gas flaring.
Ozobo highlighted the value of gas, saying other oil-producing countries take it seriously.
“You make more money in gas than even oil. It’s the most expensive. It’s more valuable than the crude oil you’re talking about,” he said.
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He questioned Nigeria’s decision to waste gas while focusing on oil production.
“I see no reason why Nigeria prefers burning or throwing away gas for oil,” Ozobo said.
He also criticised the government for relying on loans from institutions like the IMF instead of tapping into the financial potential of gas.
In his view, gas can generate more revenue for Nigeria than crude oil if properly harnessed.
Ozobo urged the government to take decisive action against gas flaring, citing its damaging effects on the environment, public health, and people’s lives.