|
Listen to article
|
President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to Ken Saro-Wiwa and the eight other Ogoni martyrs, pledging that his administration will take steps to address the long-standing grievances of the Ogoni people and seek justice for their historical struggles.
The regime of former Head of State, the late Sani Abacha, ordered the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and other Ogoni activists in 1995, following accusations of murder that drew global condemnation and intensified scrutiny of Nigeria’s human rights record.
Among those executed with Saro-Wiwa were Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine, each remembered as part of the Ogoni Nine who paid the ultimate price for their activism.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on Monday, shared Tinubu’s assurance to Nigerians that he is committed to building a united nation, with a focus on bridging divisions and strengthening the country’s sense of shared purpose.
“The President reaffirmed that his administration will actively address historical grievances and work towards building a united and prosperous nation for future generations. This vision will be realised through constructive engagement and mutual respect,” the statement read.
“We honour their memory by recognising 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,” said President Tinubu.
READ FULL STATEMENT
STATE HOUSE PRESS STATEMENT
PRESIDENT TINUBU HONORS OGONI MARTYRS
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among all ethnic nationalities that make up our great nation.
In a special message commemorating the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, President Tinubu stands in 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.
Read also: Atiku Envious Of Tinubu’s Position As President – Presidency
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 recognising 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,” said President Tinubu.
The President reaffirmed that his administration will actively address historical grievances and work towards building a united and prosperous nation for future generations. 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 nine other leaders 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.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
November 11, 2024
