FACTORS AND VARIABLES OF OIL SPILL IN REMOTE CREEKS OF THE KALABARI ENVIRONMENT IN RIVERS STATE OF NIGERIA

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the causative factors, variables and effects of oil spill in Remote Creeks ofthe Kalabari region in Rivers state of Nigeria and to identify the suitable management systems that will controlOil Spill so as to reduce it impacts in the remote creeks. The study adopts a qualitative and quantitative researchthrough interviews, fishermen and the youths to identify oil spill impacts on community socio- economicconditions. The collection of data involves the use of both qualitative and quantitativeapproaches concurrently. This was possible because the study focused on the effects of oil spill on aquatic livesand property.Questionnaires were distributed in nine communities affected by the oil spill in the narrow creek region ofKalabari area of Rivers State.The primary data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 25)Descriptive statistical tools such as frequency tables, percentages and bar chart were used to present the data.The study concluded that there are high effects of oil spill on aquatic lives and chattels, on the entirecommunities with different factors that have been responsible for oil spills. The research makes arecommendation to all stakeholders, youths involved in illegal bunkering, Federal Government and StateGovernment within oil related and the oil companies situated to improve their strategies and or contingentplanning in tackling oil spill-related issues and adhere to community‟s plight when appropriate.

KEY WORDS: Oil Spill, Environment, Aquatic, Creeks, Kalabari