The Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People in the United States (MOSOP-USA) has issued clear demands before the federal government resumes oil exploration in Ogoniland, Rivers State.
In a statement released on Monday in Port Harcourt, MOSOP-USA outlined several conditions, including the creation of an Ogoni State, compensation for the families of the 13 Ogoni martyrs, and the declaration of November 10 as Nigeria’s Environmental Day. The group also called for the adoption of the Ogoni Bill of Rights into the Nigerian constitution, emphasizing the need to address decades of environmental destruction and systemic neglect.
MOSOP-USA President Augustine Kpuinen signed the statement, making it clear that oil production in Ogoniland cannot resume until the government meets these conditions. “The oil in Ogoniland is covered with the blood of our people. Any attempt to restart operations without addressing these grievances will face strong resistance,” Kpuinen warned.
The demands reflect long-standing issues linked to environmental and social injustices caused by unchecked oil exploration. Kpuinen stressed that reparations and systemic reforms are vital for rebuilding trust and securing justice for the Ogoni people.
A major demand is compensation for the families of the 13 Ogoni activists, including Ken Saro-Wiwa, who were executed in 1995 for their opposition to environmental exploitation. MOSOP-USA also insisted that November 10—the anniversary of the activists’ execution—be declared a national Environmental Day to honor their sacrifices and highlight the ongoing environmental crisis in Ogoniland.
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The creation of an Ogoni State is another critical demand. MOSOP-USA believes this would ensure political and economic empowerment for Ogoni communities and provide representation within Nigeria’s federal system. The group warned that ignoring these demands would deepen the perception that the Ogoni people are marginalized and excluded from Nigeria’s decision-making processes.
MOSOP-USA also expressed concern over the political tensions in Rivers State. The group urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to de-escalate actions that have contributed to the unrest in the state.
By issuing these conditions, MOSOP-USA reaffirmed its commitment to seeking justice for the Ogoni people. The group stressed that any future oil exploration must be preceded by environmental restoration, social equity, and accountability for past wrongs.
