The Dutch Labour Party has asked questions in parliament about reports that oil giant Shell is bankrolling security troops in Nigeria accused of human rights abuses.
Earlier this week, the London-based oil industry watchdog Platform claimed the Anglo-Dutch company had paid Nigerian government forces 65 million dollars between 2007 and 2009 to protect Shell facilities in the Niger delta. Labour MP’s Frans Timmermans and Sjoera Dikkers said it was “irresponsible and unacceptable” for the company to pay soldiers and police who are known for routine rights abuses.
The organisation Platform based its claim on leaked company documents. Reacting to the accusations, Shell said in a statement to news agency AFP “All our staff and contractors are expected to adhere to the highest levels of personal and corporate ethics."
The opposition MP’s want the Foreign Minister and the Minister of Economic Affairs to raise the issue with Shell’s directors.
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