Barely 30 years after the late former Head of State, Sani Abacha executed Ken-Saro-Wiwe and eight other Ogoni leaders in 1995, President Bola Tinubu has honoured activist and the eight other Ogoni martyrs. This is even as the President promised to address the historical grievances that led to the execution of Ogoni leaders.
Recall that in 1995, the administration of a former Head of State late Sani Abacha ordered the execution of Saro-Wiwa, and eight other activists after they were accused of murder.
Aside of Saro-Wiwe the names of the eight executed were Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, and Daniel Gbooko. Others were Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine
But in a statement on Monday by Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu promised to build a united nation.
The statement read in part: “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 realized through constructive engagement and mutual respect.”
“We honour their memory by recognizing the sacrifices made. And pledging to strive for a future characterized by peace, justice, and sustainable development for all communities. Particularly those in the Niger Delta.”
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.
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 characterized 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 realized through constructive engagement and mutual respect.
Recall that 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. A situation that culminated in the tragic execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other leaders in 1995.
The President added, “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.”
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
November 11, 2024
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