President Bola Tinubu has vowed that his administration will pursue justice for Ogoni leaders executed in 1995, including Ken Saro-Wiwa, pledging to address long-standing grievances and foster unity among all Nigerian ethnic groups.
In a statement marking the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu reiterated his solidarity with the Ogoni community, especially with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP).
He praised the courage of those “who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the Ogoni nation’s interests,” adding that this year’s commemoration theme, “After Price, Comes Prise,” embodies Nigeria’s collective commitment to reflect on past struggles and aspire to a peaceful, inclusive 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,” President Tinubu said.
He affirmed that his administration is committed to addressing historical injustices and building a unified, prosperous Nigeria.
Reflecting on the roots of the Ogoni struggle, President Tinubu acknowledged that oil was first commercially discovered in Ogoniland in 1958, leading to environmental challenges that later fuelled the advocacy led by Ken Saro-Wiwa and others.
The Ogoni leaders’ activism against environmental degradation faced harsh repression, culminating in the execution of Saro-Wiwa and eight 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 stated.
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