An investigation into root causes of sabotage and vandalism of pipes: A major environmental hazard in Niger Delta, Nigeria

Human activities are seen as the root causes of almost all environmental hazards due to the different actions currently affecting the ozone layer, unusual environmental changes and extreme weather conditions in recent times. Activities such as vandalism and sabotage have contributed significantly to the environmental issues within the Nigerian, Niger Delta context due to the presence of oil and gas activities, perceived marginalisation and neglect on the community aspect and the quest for sustainable livelihood support. This study explores the influencing causes associated with sabotage and vandalism through a desk-based research and primary data collection across communities and related oil spill agencies including oil and gas key personnel. Accordingly, the study has uncovered different influencing factors ranging from institutional to community factors, thereby, establishing some strategic recommendations for the reduction of such acts of sabotage and vandalism.