Impediments to Environmental Forensics in the Implementation of Polluter Pays Principle in Nigeria’s Extractive Industry

Abstract

The inability of environmental litigation plaintiffs to discharge the evidential burden of proof imposed on them often frustrate their attempts to obtain remedy for injuries suffered. Scientific evidence is an effective approach to aid victims of pollution ground their claims and help the court determine whether contested facts are proved or not. This article examines the factors that impede the deployment of environmental forensics in litigations affecting Nigeria’s extractive industry and recommends appropriate remedial interventions.