A coalition of over 30 civil society organizations led by the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) conducted a peaceful demonstration on Monday throughout Ogoniland in Rivers State. The protest responded to the federal government’s plans to resume oil exploration in the region after a three-decade hiatus.
Demonstrators from organizations including the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP), the Federation of Ogoni Women’s Associations (FOWA), and several other local groups gathered in Bori carrying placards with messages such as “Clear Ken Saro-Wiwa’s Name,” “No to Forceful Oil Resumption,” and “Stop the Ogoni Genocide.”
It is worth noting that the coalition has established several prerequisites for the resumption of oil production activities in Ogoniland. These include the exoneration of Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Eight who were executed in 1995 following their environmental advocacy work. The groups emphasize that a formal exoneration rather than a pardon is necessary, citing procedural concerns regarding the original trial under General Abacha’s administration.
Additional requirements include comprehensive stakeholder participation with mandatory MOSOP involvement, restructuring of the current negotiation framework, allocation of operational licenses to indigenous companies, financial compensation for environmental damage, and a formal investigation into historical incidents related to the conflict.
Notably, during the demonstration at Bori’s Peace Park, MOSOP President Fegalo Nsuke emphasized the historical significance of his organization in the regional oil controversy. “Our involvement in any oil resumption process is non-negotiable,” Nsuke stated, reiterating MOSOP’s commitment to protecting local interests.
NYCOP President Barinuazor Emmanuel addressed the legacy of Ken Saro-Wiwa, characterizing him as an advocate for indigenous rights rather than a criminal. Emmanuel further expressed concern regarding potential interference from regional political figures, suggesting that such actions could undermine presidential initiatives aimed at resolution.
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It is worth remembering that the current situation follows President Bola Tinubu’s January announcement regarding plans to reinitiate oil exploration activities in Ogoniland. This decision comes after operations were suspended for more than three decades following widespread community opposition. The administration subsequently established a committee under National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu with the mandate to facilitate dialogue with regional stakeholders.
The consultation process has encountered significant challenges, with primary stakeholders, particularly MOSOP, reporting discrepancies between presidential directives and implementation methods. These concerns center on community engagement and consultation procedures.
