Nigerians in the UK and Europe - Nigerian Community in Europe

Four Nigerian farmers are suing Shell, claiming that the oil firm polluted their land in the Niger Delta region.

The farmers allege that oil spilt from the supply lines of a subsidiary of Shell contaminated lakes and farms, ruining villagers livelihoods.

They will ask a court in the Netherlands for compensation and to force Shell to clean up the area. Shell denies responsibility and says the court has no authority in the case.

Earlier this year, Shell agreed to pay millions of dollars to a group of Nigerians over alleged abuses of their rights in the delta region. Although Shell paid compensation, it did not accept responsibility for rights abuses.

Lawyers for the farmers, who are backed by environmental group Friends of the Earth Netherlands, the leak had effectively impoverished people in the delta. "What we want first is that Shell should be compelled to go back to the communities and do a thorough clean-up of the environment," said Chima Williams.

"Then that Shell should pay adequate compensation to the people for loss of livelihoods." Shell said it regretted the spillage, but said it was not responsible because the leak was caused by sabotage.