11th November, 2024
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic communities.
In a message commemorating the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, President Tinubu expressed solidarity with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and all Ogoni citizens, honouring those who sacrificed their lives in defence of the Ogoni nation’s rights.
This year’s remembrance, themed “After Price, Comes Prise,” reflects a shared commitment to acknowledge past pain while aspiring toward a brighter future.
“We honour their memory by recognising their sacrifices and pledging to build a future of peace, justice, and sustainable development for all communities, especially in the Niger Delta,” Tinubu stated.
He further assured that his administration is committed to addressing historical grievances and fostering unity and prosperity for future generations, promising this vision would be pursued through constructive engagement and mutual respect.
Oil was first commercially discovered in Ogoniland’s Oloibiri in 1958. Since then, Ogoni leaders’ struggles to protect their environment from harmful oil exploration faced severe repression, culminating in the 1995 execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and nine other leaders.
“As we remember the Ogoni Martyrs, let us honour their legacy by committing to a future where injustices are no longer tolerated and where the voices of all Nigerians are heard and respected,” President Tinubu said.
