The apex socio-cultural and political organisation of the Ogoni ethnic group, KAGOTE, has hailed the directive by President Muhammadu Buhari that funds be released for the cleanup of Ogoni Land.
KAGOTE commendation came after a statement issued by the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachukwu on Wednesday, said that President Buhari is committed to the success of Ogoni cleanup, noting that his ministry is working with the ministry of environment to complete the clean-up.
“I commend this directive to release the fund. Alhough delayed, it is a welcome development. I am aware that it was three weeks ago that we signed up the account, and it was precisely last week that a formal request for this fund was made, and for the President to act promptly to direct this release, then it is absolutely timely.
Dr Peter Medee also said that by this move, the Federal Government has shown sincerity in the cleanup of Ogoni land.
“We need to note that the fund is not a cash call, neither is it a project finance. But it is a mandatory contribution from the joint venture partners led by SPDC and NNPC.
“I’m also aware that some of these partners have already paid off and awaiting the part from NNPC, that the cleanup of impacted sites in Ogoni can adequately be funded and that is a very good development in this process.
“It is a laudable milestone achieved in this process and it will bring shame to those who feel, that the cleanup was a mere jamboree or a political gimmick, now that it is getting very real that the cleanup will be achieved.
