Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has promised to address the historical grievances of the Ogoni people and work toward building a united and prosperous nation for future generations.
He said this vision would be realized through constructive engagement and mutual respect.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among all ethnic nationalities that make up our great nation.
In a special message commemorating the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, Tinubu stood in solidarity with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and all Ogoni citizens to honour those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the region’s interests.
A statement on Monday by the presidency spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, noted that this year’s commemoration, themed ‘After Price, Comes Prise’, reflects our collective commitment to acknowledging the pain and the lessons of the past as we aspire for a brighter future.
“We honour their memory by recognising the sacrifices made and pledging to strive for a future characterised by peace, justice, and sustainable development for all communities, particularly those in the Niger Delta,” Tinubu said.
The presidency recalled that oil was first commercially discovered in Oloibiri, Ogoniland, in 1958.
Severe repression met the subsequent struggles of Ogoni leaders to protect their environment from harmful oil exploration, culminating in the tragic execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and nine other leaders in 1995.
“As we remember the Ogoni Martyrs, let us honour their legacy by committing to a future where such injustices are no longer tolerated and where the voices of all Nigerians are heard and respected,” Tinubu said.
