Constable Press Release
The Next Gulf
London, Washington and Oil Conflict in Nigeria
Andy Rowell, James Marriott and Lorne Stockman
Published by Constable £8.99 Paperback
Published on 10th November 2005 to coincide with the 10th anniversary of Ken Saro-Wiwa’s death
In the new scramble for Africa, oil-rich Nigeria and other West African countries are becoming a counterweight to the
Middle East: “The Next Gulf”
On 10th November 1995, the Nigerian government executed activist and author Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni. Their
deaths brought the plight of their people and the role of British oil companies in Nigeria to the world’s attention.
The New Gulf explores what has happened since Saro-Wiwa’s death. It includes previously never used interview material
with the executed writer and recently released Foreign Office documents. The book tracks the scandals that the oil
companies have been embroiled in, including collusion with the military, corruption and tax evasion. It argues that oil
exploitation is just the latest example of colonial exploitation that dates back to the days of slavery.
A decade later, the region could ignite once more. Post 9/11, the Gulf of Guinea is seen as strategically important to
the US and its allies. Washington wants their oil and gas, to be protected by US military might. Pitted against them are
the people of the Delta who continue to suffer from dire environmental pollution and human rights abuses. Whereas
Saro-Wiwa’s struggle was non-violent, the Delta is now awash with arms. A show-down looks certain.
A timely and essential book that analyses how oil, military power and politics play out. A programme of events to
commemorate the life and work of Ken Saro-Wiwa coincides with the book’s publication – details overleaf.
Andy Rowell is a journalist and author whose previous books include Don’t Worry (It’s Safe to Eat) and Green Backlash.
He is Co-founder of www.spinwatch.org
James Marriott is co-director of the environmental charity, Platform. For further info go to www.platformlondon.org
Lorne Stockman is the coordinator of the Remember Saro-Wiwa campaign.
To schedule an interview or for a review copy or further info contact
Gary Chapman 020 8741 3663 gary@constablerobinson.com
Constable & Robinson Ltd
3 The Lanchesters, 162 Fulham Palace Road, London W6 9ER
Remember Saro-Wiwa
A 10th anniversary season of public art, film, music, dance, poetry and debate
On 10th November 1995, Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight Ogoni colleagues were executed by the Nigerian state for campaigning
against the devastation of the Niger Delta by the oil industry.
Over the next week a range of events will celebrate Ken’s life and highlight the ongoing struggle for justice in the
Niger Delta. This will culminate in the announcement of the winning design for a unique piece of public art for London –
the Living Memorial.
4th November – The Living Memorial: Artist’s Talk, Museum of London
Speakers Gary Younge and Alfredo Jaar join panel of shortlisted authors 7.30pm
8th November – Panel Discussion: The future of the Niger Delta, Amnesty Human Rights Action Centre
With Ken Wiwa and Patrick Smith (Africa Confidential) 7-9pm
9th November – Literature Evening, South Bank Centre, Purcell Room
Alice Oswald, Wole Soyinka, Byron Wallen and Lemn Sissy 7.45pm
10th November – Announcement of winning Living Memorial proposal and commemoration events
For further information see www.remembersarowiwa.com
ENDS