Ogoni martyrs: Tinubu reaffirms commitment to reconciliation among nationalities

President Bola Tinubu on Monday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among all ethnic nationalities that make up Nigeria.

In a special 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 to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the Ogoni nation’s interests.

Tinubu said, “This year’s commemoration, themed ‘After Price, Comes Prise,’ reflects our collective commitment to acknowledging the pain and the lessons of the past as we aspire for a brighter future.

“We honour their memory by recognizing the sacrifices made and pledging to strive for a future characterised by peace, justice, and sustainable development for all communities, particularly those in the Niger Delta.”

The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to actively address historical grievances and work towards building a united and prosperous nation for future generations, adding “This vision will be realised through constructive engagement and mutual respect.”

Oil was first commercially discovered in Oloibiri, Ogoniland, in 1958. The subsequent struggles of Ogoni leaders to protect their environment from harmful oil exploration were met with severe repression, culminating in the tragic execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others in 1995.

“As we remember the Ogoni Martyrs, let us honour their legacy by committing to a future where such injustices are no longer tolerated and where the voices of all Nigerians are heard and respected,” President Tinubu said.