The President/Chief Executive Officer of Ogoni Liberation Initiative, OLI, Fabeke Douglas has chided few individuals attempting to divert attention of the people, saying, the era of exploiting God-given resources in Ogoniland without accountability is coming to an end.

He also regretted that since arrival of Shell in Ogoniland in 1958, the people of the region suffered untold hardship as a result of oil exploration without obtaining proper consent or adequately developing the local communities, while their resources are exploited to develop the entire country.

In a statement made available to The Guardian, Douglas said “We are now aware of our rights and demand fair compensation for the oil extracted from our land,” saying, the tragic execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others, including numerous sons and daughters of Ogoni, would not have occurred if there was a due process.

The President/CEO noted that certain leaders, driven by self-interest, are willing to compromise Ogoni’s interests, and one such individual reportedly described him as an inconsequential figure from Ogoniland to a high-ranking Nigerian official in Abuja.

“We will continually emphasize that the era of exploiting Ogoni’s resources without accountability is coming to an end. We urge those receiving funds from oil companies and the federal government to familiarize themselves with the ‘Ogoni Bill of Rights,’ which represents our collective voice.”

According to Douglas, “We are committed to defending our cause through spiritual, political, and comprehensive means. Although we have the opportunity to negotiate for the Bori State and fund our vision, some leaders continue to engage in secret meetings with government officials and companies.”

Upon reviewing certain documents, he maintained that they were overcome with emotion. Ultimately, the truth will come to light, and their actions will be exposed. Various nations and groups are preparing to provide funding for Bori State.

He therefore hinted that the Dialogue Committee would have focused its efforts on creation of Bori State as the entire Ogoni community, both locally and internationally, would have invested significant interest in the state project.

“However, we lack unity and effective representation in the National and State Houses of Assembly. There has been absent of political negotiation and mobilization that centered on the interests of the people.”

“It is crucial for the Ogoni and Rivers people to make the right choices, lest we perpetuate a mentality that hinders our progress. If we refuse to make the right choice and stand firm,I will exempt myself from the next slavery agenda. Ogoni Arise,” he concluded.