Tinubu Calls for Healing and Unity in Ogoniland Amid Oil Resumption Talks

President Bola Tinubu has urged the leaders of Ogoniland to put aside historical grievances in order to heal past wounds and foster progress. Speaking during a meeting at the Council Chamber in Abuja on Tuesday, he emphasized the importance of unity, peace, and sustainable development for the region.

Acknowledging the long history of tension, President Tinubu stated, “We cannot in any way rewrite history, but we can correct some anomalies of the past going forward. We cannot heal the wounds if we continue to be angry.” His message was clear: reconciliation and collective action are key to moving the region forward.

The President directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to oversee negotiations, emphasizing the need for inclusive consultations to resolve lingering challenges in Ogoniland. He also commended the delegation for embracing dialogue with the federal government and called for greater cooperation between all stakeholders, including ministers, the NNPC, and the Rivers State Government.

Reflecting on his personal ties to the region, President Tinubu recalled his past collaborations with Ogoni leaders in resisting military dictatorship, honoring those who had fought for a better Nigeria. “I know what to do in memory of our beloved ones so that their sacrifices will not be in vain,” he said, reinforcing his commitment to the people of Ogoniland.

Governor Sim Fubara, who represented the Ogoni people at the meeting, expressed gratitude for the President’s support and pledged to ensure that oil production resumes responsibly, with due consideration for environmental concerns and the well-being of the people.

The National Security Adviser, Mallam Ribadu, highlighted the importance of the 50-member delegation, which reflected the diverse interests of Ogoni society. He praised the unity shown by the delegation and their readiness to engage in meaningful dialogue for the future of the region.

In addition, a representative from the Ogoni leadership, King Festus Babari Bagia Gberesaako XIII, the Gberemene of Gokana Kingdom, reiterated their willingness to work towards sustainable solutions for Ogoniland’s challenges.

However, concerns about the environmental impact of oil production remain. Civil society groups have called for a $1 trillion allocation from the government to address the environmental damage caused by years of oil exploration in the region. The UNEP report from 2011 documented widespread pollution, and activists argue that the full cleanup and implementation of recommended actions must be prioritized before any resumption of oil production.