The Ogoni Dialogue Committee has urged communities in Ogoniland to be vocal and active in the oil resumption processes, assuring them that their concerns will be articulated and presented as a unified demand from the Ogoni people to the Federal Government.
Co-Chairman of the Committee, Archbishop Ignatius Kattey (Rtd), gave the charge during a meeting with communities in Tai Local Government Area at the Council Secretariat in Saakpenwa on Sunday.
Kattey stressed that the dialogue offers the Ogoni people an opportunity to ensure their voices are heard, urging community members to participate actively in the process.
Kattey stated that the Federal Government has commenced the confidence-building process, which was requested by the Ogoni delegation, with the signing of the bill for the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology in Tai LGA.
He reiterated that the university has the potential to unlock significant economic opportunities for the Ogoni people, representing a beacon of hope and progress for the area.
“As we move forward, I encourage every community within Tai LGA to submit their positions on the resumption of oil activities in Ogoni. Your voices are vital, and I assure you that all collated views will be integral to our demands as we negotiate with the Federal Government of Nigeria. This is our chance to ensure that our collective concerns are heard and addressed, so I urge you to seize this opportunity.
“Additionally, we plan to meet with critical stakeholders, including our Ogoni youth and women, in line with the Dialogue Committee’s work plan. Your participation and insights are essential as we work together for a brighter future,” Kattey stated.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his initiative in adopting dialogue in the processes with the Ogoni people.
He also thanked National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, for his diligent facilitation of the dialogue process.
The Co-Chair further thanked Rivers State governor, Siminialayi Fubara, for his involvement and commitment, particularly for the prompt release of the Kira campus of the Rivers State University to enable the immediate establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology.
In his remarks, Senator Barry Mpigi, representing Rivers South East at the National Assembly, noted that the Tai people are not opposed to the resumption of oil activities in the area. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the would-be operator and the communities for smooth operations.
“The Tai people are not opposed to oil resumption, but we want to see how it will be implemented. This is why we have submitted our memorandum to you,” Mpigi stated. “If the would-be operator listens to the terms of the Tai people, we can work together.”
Mpigi also thanked the Federal Government for assenting to the establishment of the Federal University of Environment and Technology in Tai, promising that the university will operate smoothly.
Chairman of the Community Development Committee of Korokoro Community, Mr. Young Kigbara, who spoke on behalf of the oil-bearing community, insisted on transparency in all processes, while other communities made submissions through the King of Tai Kingdom, HRM King Samuel Nnee.
Photo: Ogoni Dialogue Committee and some stakeholders of Tai Local Government at the committee grassroots consultation in Tai LGA.
