Former agitators from the Ogoni region of Rivers State have urged the Federal Government to include them in the Board of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), citing their expertise in environmental matters.
In an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, the group, led by State Coordinator and National Publicity Secretary Lekia Lezorge Tongor, emphasized their ability to effectively oversee and coordinate the Ogoni cleanup efforts for maximum impact.
They also reaffirmed their support for the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland, stressing that appointments to HYPREP should strictly adhere to the provisions of paragraph 20(b) of the agency’s establishing Act.
The ex-militants specifically requested that young professionals with expertise in environmental sciences be given key roles in managing the cleanup.
“We humbly ask that youths be considered in positions of trust to manage and supervise the Ogoni cleanup project,” the letter stated. “Young people, with their strength and vigour, can help drive Mr. President’s renewed hope agenda.”
They further argued that professionalism should take precedence in appointments, pointing out that technical expertise is crucial.
“As we all know, an accountant cannot do the job of a medical doctor, even with 100 years of experience in a hospital. A degree in medicine is required. The same principle applies to the environmental sector,” the letter continued.
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The group insisted that the HYPREP 2016 gazette, particularly paragraph 20(b), which mandates that the project coordinator must be an environmental scientist with relevant experience, should be strictly followed.
Reaffirming their stance, the ex-militants expressed willingness to support ongoing discussions regarding the return of oil production in Ogoniland, provided it benefits the local population.
“The Ogoni ex-agitators pledge to support the ongoing dialogue for oil resumption in Ogoniland as long as it is to the benefit of our people,” they concluded.
