Spinwatch - The Next Gulf - London, Washington and Oil Conflict in Niger

As America and Europe diversify oil and gas supplies away from the volatile Persian Gulf, West Africa’s Gulf of Guinea is set to become its counterweight: “The Next Gulf”.

It is ten years since the Nigerian government executed activist and author Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight Ogoni compatriots, who were campaigning against the oil giant Shell. The Next Gulf explores what has happened since Saro-Wiwa’s death. It includes previously never used interview material with the executed writer and recently released Foreign Office documents. The book tracks the scandals that the oil companies have been embroiled in, including collusion with the military, corruption and tax evasion. It argues that oil exploitation is just the latest example of colonial exploitation that dates back to the days of slavery.

A decade later, the region could ignite once more. Post 9/11, the Gulf of Guinea is seen as strategically important to the US and its allies. Washington wants their oil and gas, to be protected by US military might. Pitted against them are the people of the Delta who continue to suffer from dire environmental pollution and human rights abuses. Whereas Saro-Wiwa’s struggle was non-violent, the Delta is now awash with arms. A show-down looks certain.

Andy Rowell, James Marriott and Lorne Stockman set out how a new Atlantic Triangle has been created that ties Britain, America and the Niger Delta together. The first Atlantic Triangle was built on the exploitation of slaves; the second on the exploitation of oil and gas. Based on interviews with leading activists from the Delta, including Saro-Wiwa’s brother and son, the book outlines how a different development path is possible. It is an essential read for anyone concerned about the power of transnationals, American foreign policy, the politics of oil or the future of Africa.

"If you want to find out about Bush and Blair's real plans for Africa, read this book"

John Sauven, Campaign Director, Greenpeace UK

"The Next Gulf clearly reveals the callousness of corporate behaviour when profit competes with human rights"

Gordon Roddick, co-founder and Non-Executive Director of Body Shop International

The Next Gulf - London, Washington and Oil Conflict in Nigeria