The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against joining the list of Nigerian leaders accused of oppressing and persecuting the Ogoni people. MOSOP President, Fegalo Nsuke, delivered the warning in his Easter message in Bori, the traditional headquarters of Ogoni, in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Nsuke emphasized that the Ogoni are not a conquered people and will not accept any agenda designed to undermine their demands for basic rights, fundamental freedoms, and equitable treatment within the Nigerian state. He warned Tinubu not to allow his legacy—especially his democratic credentials from his days with NADECO—to be tarnished by being misled into oppressive policies.
"We were told the Ogoni struggle was about our rights, and those rights are clearly outlined in the Ogoni Bill of Rights. We stand firmly by those demands and insist on them today," Nsuke stated. He criticized the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) for allegedly attempting to bypass the core issues of the Ogoni struggle under the guise of a dialogue committee, describing the move as manipulative and dangerous.
Nsuke highlighted the unresolved injustices, including the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others in 1995, as well as the deaths of four Ogoni leaders in 1994. He called for renewed investigations and accountability. MOSOP has proposed a development plan, adopted at several Ogoni congresses, which presents a peaceful path to resolving the long-standing crisis.
"The Ogoni people simply want fair treatment, not manipulated processes. We call for genuine dialogue with the real actors of the Ogoni struggle. The voice of the people—men, women, and children—is what MOSOP represents, and it must be respected in any engagement," Nsuke emphasized.
He warned that any attempt to militarize Ogoniland in a bid to restart oil production will backfire, further strain relations with the Niger Delta region, damage Nigeria’s international image, and discourage foreign investment. Nsuke urged President Tinubu to discard any plans rooted in force or manipulation and instead embrace transparent dialogue and negotiation with the legitimate representatives of the Ogoni cause.
The MOSOP president's warning is a clear message to the Tinubu administration that the Ogoni people will not be silenced or oppressed. The Ogoni struggle is not just about oil; it's about justice, fairness, and the right to self-determination. As the nation navigates complex challenges, it's essential that leaders prioritize transparency, accountability, and dialogue.
The international community is watching, and Nigeria's image hangs in the balance. The Tinubu administration must tread carefully, engaging with the Ogoni people and addressing their demands in a fair and transparent manner. Anything less will be seen as a continuation of the oppressive policies that have plagued the Niger Delta region for decades.
In conclusion, MOSOP's warning to President Tinubu is a call to action. The Ogoni people deserve justice, fairness, and respect. The Tinubu administration must prioritize dialogue, transparency, and accountability, working towards a peaceful resolution to the Ogoni crisis. The future of Nigeria's democracy and international reputation depends on it.
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