Martins Asukpa pinpoints the remarkable progress in addressing environmental degradation and promoting environmental remediation in his community through Accountability Lab (AL) Nigeria’s Civic Action Teams (CivActs).

Martins Asukpa, a member of the Ibeno community from Akwa-Ibom state, had witnessed the environmental pollution caused by ExxonMobil’s operations—including gas flaring and oil spills—for a long time. The environmental pollution has not only endangered the livelihoods of his community by polluting the air and water, but it has also resulted in significant health issues for community members.

Martins and other community members were provided with the knowledge and skills necessary to self-advocate for their rights and benefits through the CivActs, as AL Nigeria identified the necessity for increased community advocacy and representation. This resulted in the establishment of a Community Justice Team (CJT) in the Ibeno community, and AL Nigeria educated them on the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the Host Community Development Trust Fund (HCDTF). AL Nigeria also initiated a radio show program tagged ‘’Voices of the Community”—a platform that has been instrumental in creating awareness and supporting community members to better understand the PIA and the HCDTF. 

Martins actively participated in the radio program, including the training and sensitization programs as a member of the CJT. Through these, he was empowered and improved his advocacy skills. Equipped with the skills and knowledge, Martins and other CJT members started advocating for their community development through town hall meetings. This bridged the gap between the community and stakeholders, as they engaged with ExxonMobil by conducting in-person meetings and separately with the board of trustees. They also sent letters to highlight the challenges faced by community members, insisting that ExxonMobil contribute to the Ibeno community by implementing community development plans (CDP) to address their environmental challenges.

As a result of these, ExxonMobil accepted responsibility for the environmental damage they had caused. ExxonMobil initiated the implementation of tangible measures to address the community’s concerns. To mitigate the consequences of pollution, they initiated and implemented a waste management evacuation project that was focused on environmental sustainability. Additionally, they awarded contracts to local contractors, ensuring that the community benefited directly from the economic opportunities. Martin’s involvement in the CJT enabled him to establish himself as a community leader, and he remains inspired to advocate for the rights of his community. Additionally, ExxonMobil has committed to implementing additional community development programs that are consistent with their CDP.

“The people of Ibeno have experienced a significant change concerning the HCDTF. Settlors can no longer exploit us because we now know better. I implore Accountability Lab Nigeria to continue with their good work, especially the radio program’’. – Martins Asukpa on Waste Management Evacuation Contract by ExxonMobil HCDT in July 2024.