Rivers monarch seeks reconciliation, oil production resumption in Ogoniland

Kadilo Kabari, the traditional ruler of Barako Ancient Community in Rivers State, has renewed calls for the implementation of the Ogoni Bill of Rights, stressing the need for justice and development in Ogoniland.

The monarch made this demand during the Uula-Mii Giaa/Lol-Giaa Tor Festival, an annual event marking the beginning of a new planting season in Ogoniland, a statement released by the monarch said on Sunday.

He stressed the urgency of addressing long-standing grievances of the Ogoni people, including reconciliation efforts, compensation, and infrastructure development.

Kabari underscored the importance of justice for victims of past conflicts, stating that the unresolved injustices continue to weigh on the conscience of the community.

“With all the blood that has been spilled on Ogoni soil or by Ogoni people, there are spiritual cries for justice. This should be addressed by clearing the names of the Ogoni Four, achieving holistic reconciliation of bereaved families before the exoneration of the Ogoni Nine, conducting proper funeral rites, and providing compensation for all lives lost in the dark days, including that of Keesiop Gboro Aakol, a son of Barako,” he said.

The Ogoni Four—activists killed during the conflict between the Ogoni people and the Nigerian government in the 1990s—remain a symbol of the struggle for environmental justice and human rights in the region. Their case is closely linked to that of the Ogoni Nine, including the late Ken Saro-Wiwa, who were executed in 1995 following a controversial trial.

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Economic and Infrastructure Development Demands

Beyond justice, the monarch also called for economic revitalization in Ogoniland, particularly in the oil and gas sector. He urged for the resumption of exploration and production activities at Yormene Well 13 of the Bomu oil fields, situated in Barako.

Kabari further proposed that Barako’s vast gas reserves be utilised for a large-scale energy infrastructure. He offered community land for the establishment of a gas-powered energy plant or turbine to boost local and national electricity supply.

“These, along with revamping the community health center and reinstating the scholarships previously provided by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to Barako students as a host community, will help meet their yearnings, among other needs,” he added.

Spiritual Significance of Rainfall

The traditional ruler also noted the spiritual significance of rainfall that occurred during the festival, which he said symbolized divine approval of the proclamations made.

“It is important to note that Barako Ancient Community hosts the revered Gbooro, described in Gokana folklore as the ‘Stream of the Rising Sun’. It is also the sole custodian of Bina, the drums that confirm warriors and kings,” he stated.

The call for the implementation of the Ogoni Bill of Rights comes amid ongoing discussions about environmental restoration in Ogoniland, particularly through the United Nations-backed cleanup efforts. However, community leaders continue to demand more concrete actions to address decades of environmental degradation and economic marginalization.

Background on the Ogoni Bill of Rights

The Ogoni Bill of Rights, first presented to the Nigerian government in 1990, outlines the demands of the Ogoni people for self-determination, environmental protection, and economic rights, particularly in relation to oil exploration in the region. Successive administrations have failed to fully implement its provisions, leading to sustained agitation by Ogoni leaders and activists.

The renewed call by Kabari is expected to reignite conversations around Ogoni autonomy, environmental justice, and economic empowerment.