Oil-induced environmental displacement in Nigeria's Niger Delta: Lived experiences of forced migration among indigenes of Ogale Community

This study examined oil-induced environmental displacement and internal migration in Ogale Community, Niger Delta, Nigeria, analyzing the socio-economic and health impacts on residents. Using a quantitative correlational design, structured questionnaires were administered to 137 residents to assess displacement drivers, livelihood disruptions, and institutional responses. Findings reveal severe environmental degradation from oil spills (70% unrecovered spills), gas flaring, and water pollution, triggering displacement (74.5% lost homes) and rural-urban migration. Over 80% reported inadequate government or corporate compensation, with 49.6% reliant on subsistence occupations (fishing/farming) rendered unviable. Health impacts included respiratory illnesses (mean=2.44) and waterborne diseases, disproportionately affecting low-income households. Gender and age showed no significant correlation with displacement outcomes (p>0.05), though 59.9% of respondents were women, highlighting gendered vulnerabilities. Educational access declined (mean=2.35), while 36.5% of displaced households relocated internally. The study underscores systemic neglect by multinational oil firms and governance failures, advocating urgent policy reforms to address ecological justice, livelihood restoration, and community resettlement.