The people of Ogoni in Rivers State have kicked against violence, expressing support for the ongoing dialogue approach by the Federal Government towards the resumption of oil exploration in the area.
Ogoni oil sites were blocked since 1995 following the extra-judicial murder of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogonis.
The Ogonis, in a resolution issued after a congress held at the Peace and Freedom Centre, Bori, in Khana Local Government Area of the State on Saturday, reaffirmed their willingness to reopen the oil wells.
They noted that the dialogue process adopted by the Federal Government to address the decades of agitation by the Ogoni people demonstrates a commitment of the current administration.
The resolution was signed by Professor Don Baridam, the chairman of the Dialogue Committee, Archbishop Ignatius Kattey, co-chairman, and the secretary, Tom Orage. They stated that the confidence-building measures already being implemented by the government are a precursor to the dialogue process.
They applauded President Bola Tinubu for granting the Ogoni delegation the opportunity to speak up, describing it as a significant step in addressing the concerns of the Ogoni people and fostering sustainable peace and development in the land.
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu and the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, were also applauded for their leadership, commitment and support for the dialogue process.
In the resolution, which was read by Dr Ignatius Kattey, a retired archbishop of the province of Niger Delta Anglican Communion, it was noted that the confidence-building mechanisms being implemented by the Federal Government will fastrack development in the area.
Some of the mechanisms include the signing into law of a bill for the establishment of the Federal University of Environmental Technology, Saakpenwa; the completion of the critical East-West road project from Eleme junction to Onne junction; and the implementation of affirmative action in the employment of Ogoni sons and daughters in key federal institutions, ensuring greater inclusion and representation.
The Ogoni Congress expressed confidence in the facilitators of the agreement and called on all Ogonis, irrespective of political affiliations, to unite and support the dialogue process.
They, however, maintained that they remained steadfast in their pursuit of justice, development, and inclusivity while reaffirming their commitment towards a constructive engagement with the government and other stakeholders to ensure that the people’s aspirations for environmental justice and economic empowerment are realized
