CENTRE FOR ENVIRONMENT, HUMAN RIGHTS AND DEVELOPMENT

CEHRD’s work spans the entire Niger Delta. With 20 years of experience championing environmental and human rights in the rural areas, and protecting its people, biodiversity conservation, rural health, and population. We also monitor, document, and report human rights violations across the region. In some cases, CEHRD provides legal advocacy to victims of human rights violations. With an unemployment rate of over 70%, dire poverty, and dim prospects, some young men seek financial and physical security by joining armed gangs, or "cults". Local government officials and/or community leaders carry out campaigns of violence designed to influence local decision-making, especially during elections, and periodically sponsor many of these cult groups. Often, these gangs are also used to sway village leaders’ and communities' opinions on oil-related projects. In all cases, the influx of cheap arms has led to a drastic increase in violence. CEHRD monitors the trend and campaigns against it. VISION A just society where fundamental human rights are attained. MISSION To galvanize stakeholders to protect human rights and achieve sustainable development through inclusive partnerships. www.cehrd.org.ng