Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta facts for kids
The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is a large group in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. This area is very rich in oil, but many local people are poor. MEND believes that the money from oil should help the people who live there.
MEND has been linked to actions against oil companies in Nigeria. These actions include damaging oil equipment, taking things, and sometimes even guerrilla-style fighting. They have also been linked to taking people for ransom.
What is MEND?
MEND is one of the biggest groups in the Niger Delta. The people in this region often face poverty. The Nigerian government allows international companies to take crude oil from the delta. This process can cause a lot of harm to the environment.
Why MEND Was Formed
MEND wants more of the money from oil to go to the poor region where the oil is found. They believe that local people have not benefited from the oil wealth. The group says it is fighting for "total control" of the Niger Delta's oil.
MEND's Main Goals
MEND has two main goals. First, they want local people to control Nigeria's oil. Second, they want the government to pay for the pollution caused by the oil industry.
Messages from MEND
In 2006, MEND sent a message to oil companies. They warned that the Nigerian government could not protect workers or equipment. They told companies to leave the land or face danger. MEND also said their goal was to stop the Nigerian government from exporting oil.
MEND also asked the President of Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo, to free two jailed leaders. These leaders were Mujahid Dokubo-Asari and Diepreye Alamieyeseigha. Later, President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua allowed these leaders to be released in 2007.
