The demand for oil in Nigeria was the catalyst for the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND): a militant powered movement by the indigenous people of Nigeria, whom of which has expressed violent resentment about what they refer to as the exploitation and abuse of their land, due to oil extraction in the region. MEND’s most recent engagement has been the fourth attack in a week, as militants on speedboats bombarded Shell and Chevron oil facilities, while taking hostages as well. Nigerian spokesman, Lt. Col. Sagir Musa affirmed that the militants attacked in eight speedboats, armed with grenades, bombs, and dynamite. Two South African Britons and twenty-seven people have been seized.

MEND has managed to cause serious calamity for the nation as a whole on several different aspects. One of which being the fact that the government’s status in the perception of the citizen, does not hold much control over the rebel attacks. Add that, to the stigma already associated with the government after the 2007 general election, control appears to be nonexistent or at least miniscule, the implications of the rebels’ attack illustrates that fact. Already twenty percent of Nigeria’s oil production has been cut during the cataclysm. Nigeria has remained optimistic about the situation relying on their military services to pacify the situation and regain control. The Nigerian military has struggled to retrieve control of this oil war, and despite the violent methods used by MEND, they claim to be fighting in defense of the destitute in the Niger Delta, whom of which cannot defend their resources. The warfare occurring currently depicts instability of the state. Nigeria is one of OPEC’s largest contributors on an international level, consequently this conflict is detrimental to the nation as of now, and needs to be resolved as quickly as possible.

Nigeria must act urgently to regain their power and control over their oil facilities; otherwise this situation will only grow worse. It is imperative that the violence and threats by MEND must be consummated by the Lt. Col Musa and his military; otherwise the future of Nigeria as a state is grim and is in serious jeopardy. The military’s chief duty is to protect its citizens and if they cannot control an internal matter like the one at hand from becoming eminent, then Nigeria will see its government’s demise and anarchy will ensue.