HYPREP urges Ogoni communities to adopt ADR in conflict resolution

In a renewed effort to reduce crisis in its operational area, the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), has emphasised the crucial role of Ogoni traditional rulers in promoting peace and environmental remediation in their communities.

At an ongoing four-day workshop on Mechanism for Alternative Dispute Resolution and Peacebuilding Techniques, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, HYPREP’s Project Coordinator, Prof Nenibarini Zabbey, stressed the importance of peace in achieving the project’s objectives.

According to him, peace is the foundation upon which all other development initiatives will thrive. As peace ambassadors, your role is to ensure that dialogue, rather than conflict becomes the cornerstone of interactions within and between Ogoni communities.

Zabbey noted that HYPREP’s success relies heavily on the level of peace, unity, and support among the Ogoni people.

He said the workshop aimed to equip stakeholders with tools for creating an atmosphere of peace and understanding, fostering collaboration and support for HYPREP’s efforts, and promoting alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

He emphasised the critical role of traditional rulers in promoting peace and environmental remediation, noting that the influence of traditional rulers and community leaders is crucial in ensuring stakeholders align with HYPREP’s objectives.

Zabbey listed challenges hindering HYPREP’s progress, such as factionalisation of community-based groups, sustained pressure for recognition, community leadership tussles, restricted access to sites due to disputes, and malicious spreading of misinformation through various media platforms.

He urged traditional rulers to build bridges of understanding to address challenges within their jurisdiction, champion the cause of environmental remediation, promote peace, reconciliation, and dialogue, and fully participate in the workshop and support HYPREP’s efforts.

He said “The Ogoni people have a rich history of advocacy, and today, HYPREP stands as a testament to your resilience. Our shared responsibility is to ensure that these efforts are not in vain. For this to happen, peace must be a priority. You can mediate conflicts, unite divided factions, build bridges for progress, and encourage dialogue among all parties in the public interest.”

MEANWHILE, the training, which was facilitated by the Centre for Peace and Security Studies at the University of Port Harcourt was meant to promote peace-building and sustainable techniques in Ogoniland.

Director of the centre, Prof Martin Ifeanancho, said, the partnership aimed to utilise Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms to resolve conflicts and promote lasting peace in the region.

“We recognise that any project, no matter how well-intentioned, will fail to achieve its objectives if there is no peace and security. That’s why we’re emphasising the importance of ADR, which focuses on mediation and negotiation to achieve a win-win situation.”

Ifeanancho explained that traditional court systems often declare winners and losers, leading to unresolved conflicts and resentment. In contrast, ADR promotes mutual understanding and cooperation. “The peace obtained through ADR is lasting because it addresses the underlying issues and involves all parties in finding a solution,” he noted.

The partnership is part of the centre’s mandate from the National Universities Commission (NUC) to provide intellectual solutions to local problems. By working with HYPREP, the centre aims to extend its expertise to Ogoniland and contribute to the region’s development.

“This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to using our academic expertise to address real-world challenges,” Ifeanancho said. “We will support HYPREP’s efforts to restore Ogoniland and promote economic growth.”