Resource Control Agitation and Political Instability in Nigeria: A Case Study of Akwa Ibom State

ABSTRACT:

Akwa Ibom State ranks among Nigeria’s major oil-producing regions, contributing substantially to the nation’s petroleum output. Despite its resource wealth, the state has witnessed persistent unrest and political instability driven by disputes surrounding resource ownership and revenue distribution. This study explores the nexus between resource control agitation and political instability in Nigeria, focusing on Akwa Ibom State, with particular attention to issues of economic marginalization and environmental degradation. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey administered to 399 respondents drawn from a population of 220,600 in Eket Local Government Area, a region significantly impacted by resourcebased conflicts. The data were analyzed using Pearson’s product-moment correlation to test the formulated hypotheses. Findings reveal that economic marginalization does not exhibit a statistically significant relationship with political instability, while environmental degradation demonstrates a strong positive correlation. The results suggest that environmental deterioration linked to resource extraction serves as a major catalyst for political unrest, surpassing economic inequality in its influence. The study underscores the importance of sustainable resource governance and environmental protection as vital tools for promoting peace and stability in Nigeria. It contributes to a broader understanding of how resource exploitation and environmental neglect intertwine with political dynamics, providing useful insights for policymakers and stakeholders.

Keywords: Resource Control Agitation, Political Instability, Economic Marginalization, Environmental Degradation