INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONS IN THE QUEST FOR THE EMANCIPATION OF THE NIGER DELTA

Abstract

This paper seeks to explore the nature of relations between two distinct generations involved in the Niger Delta conflicts. These generations are identified as the elders, which include village chiefs, elites, and political leaders on one hand, and youths of different Niger Delta communities on the other. While relying on a critical review of extant literature and data generated from semi-structured interviews, the paper argues that before the Ogoni crisis of the 1990s, which culminated in the execution of Ken Saro Wiwa, the relationship between the elders and the youths was mostly cooperative. The events of the 1990s marked a turning point in intergenerational relations across Niger Delta communities coloured by conflict, distrust, and disagreements. The paper finds that whereas the elders preferred dialogue and peaceful protests as useful strategies for expressing their grievances against the Nigerian state and multinational corporations operating within the region, the younger generation opted for armed resistance, leading to the emergence of multiple militia groups. Based on the findings of this study, it becomes evident that conflict in the Niger Delta is associated with several unintended consequences, one of which is the breakdown of relationships between members of the older and younger generations. Therefore, the paper concludes that there is a need for concerted efforts aimed at improving trust and cordial relations among members of different generations within the Niger Delta region.