Chevron Cleared of Charges in Nigerian Human Rights Case

The Bowoto v Chevron case we covered last month was centered around a conflict in Nigeria 10 years ago. Larry Bowoto and 100 other Nigerians were staging a peaceful protest on a Chevron oil platform demanding talks between the corporation and local villagers about job training and opportunities. Locals have lost work and seen their livelihood decline with the negative environmental impact resulting from Chevron's presence. When protesters were told Chevron would not engage in talks, Nigerian soldiers flown in by helicopter opened fire on the villagers. Two were killed and others were wounded.

Chevron was being charged for torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, assault, battery and negligence. If the jury found the corporation guilty, it would have been the first time in history an American corporation was charged in an American court for human rights abuses abroad.

According to Reuters,

The lawyer for the plaintiffs had argued that Nigeria military forces landed on Parabe to retake the platform were on Chevron's payroll and supervised by the company.

Chevron in a statement said it was gratified by the jury's verdict. "It was never Chevron Nigeria Ltd's intent that anyone on the platform be harmed, and we deeply regret the loss of life and injuries that occurred," the statement added.

Thirsty for more? Check out these related articles:

• 9 Ways to Not Get Sick This Sick Season
• 2 Wheels, Not 4: Pedal Towards Bicycle Activism in 10 Revolutions Per Minute
• Who Needs a Mandate to Compost? Be Your Own San Francisco
• Do You Live in One of America's Most Toxic Cities?
• O is For Odd But Awesome Olive Oil Sundae
• Join the Oil Detox Challenge

Reusability

Solar Technology

Photography

Walking