The Project Coordinator, Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, has urged stakeholders in Ogoni to shun perceptions that do not serve the collective progress of the community.

At a workshop on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and peacebuilding techniques in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, he said, “the time has come for all Ogoni to unite for development,” leaving behind perceptions that do not promote unity and progress.

He emphasised that leaders must be mindful of their actions, words and body language, which could either promote peace or fan the embers of conflict.

The workshop, which is part of the project’s efforts to promote peace and stability in Ogoni, was to strengthen the capacity of stakeholders in ADR and peacebuilding techniques.

Zabbey noted that development could not thrive without communication and trust, urging participants to continue talking to one another, listening, engaging and preventing disputes from degenerating into violence.

He reaffirmed HYPREP’s commitment to peace and development in Ogoni through its various activities, including environmental restoration, potable water provision, livelihood restoration, public health interventions and the Ogoni Power Project.

The coordinator expressed confidence that the workshop would produce new champions of peace across Ogoni and contribute to the collective progress of the community.