The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has expressed support for the dialogue initiative led by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), describing it as a potential turning point in resolving decades-long conflicts between the Ogoni people and Nigeria’s oil industry.
Speaking at a meeting of MOSOP leaders in Port Harcourt, MOSOP President, Fegalo Nsuke, urged the Ogoni people to embrace the dialogue process and give it a chance to succeed. He noted that the initiative, coordinated by ONSA, represents a significant departure from previous government approaches.
According to Nsuke, the current process is more people-centred and focused on achieving collective benefits for the Ogoni people. He commended the ONSA for initiating the dialogue and called on stakeholders to resist attempts to undermine the progress made so far.
He stressed that MOSOP’s position remains firmly rooted in securing outcomes that reflect the sacrifices of the Ogoni people over the past 33 years, adding that the organisation is committed to supporting the process and awaiting its outcome with patience.
Nsuke also condemned what he described as divisive campaigns aimed at shifting attention from the core issues affecting Ogoni communities, warning against efforts to exploit the dialogue for private gain.
“MOSOP will not, under any circumstances, support private interests over the collective good of the Ogoni people,” he said.
He further urged individuals with personal business ambitions in the oil sector to follow due process by registering with the appropriate authorities, rather than attempting to compromise the interests of the Ogoni people.
“The Ogoni people, led by MOSOP, fought collectively to secure a better future. Whatever benefits arise from that struggle must serve the common good,” Nsuke stated.
He called on the Ogoni people to remain united and defend the gains of their long-standing struggle, expressing optimism that the ongoing dialogue could lead to a mutually beneficial resolution.
