Ogoni Oil Resumption: Rivers LGs Seek Clarity, Caution Against Derailment
Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The proposed resumption of oil production in Ogoniland after more than three decades may face fresh challenges following concerns raised by the four local government
The four local governments within Ogoniland, Khana, Gokana, Tai, and Eleme, have expressed concerns over the proposed resumption of oil production in the region. The KAGOTE, an umbrella body representing these local governments, has raised apprehension about the conduct of some members within the Ogoni Dialogue Committee (ODC). They fear that oil-related activities might have started in certain parts of Ogoniland without proper clarification from the ODC.
The KAGOTE president, Chief Lesi Maol, commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to addressing Ogoni concerns but warned that the credibility of the dialogue process could be undermined. The dialogue process, led by the NSA Nuhu Ribadu, aims to rebuild trust and resolve longstanding issues between the federal government and the Ogoni people.
However, Maol requested greater transparency regarding the status of oil activities and the criteria for distributing opportunities associated with the resumption. He also alleged that unauthorised individuals had improperly used the authority of the NSA in appointing members to the ODC. Maol emphasized the need for an urgent investigation into these allegations to maintain the integrity of the dialogue process.
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