Dare Babalola
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged Ogoni leaders and stakeholders to put aside internal differences and unite, as the community celebrates the annual Ogoni Day.
Fubara made the call in an Ogoni Day message, with celebrations taking place today, Sunday.
The governor’s message was issued in a statement by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communication, Dr Honour Sirawoo, to mark the occasion.
Fubara described Ogoni Day as a powerful symbol of the Ogoni people’s resilience, identity, and enduring struggle for environmental justice and equity, noting its significance in highlighting their plasp for recognition and rights. He also paid tribute to the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) for its steadfast commitment to peaceful advocacy.
The governor stated that the movement brought global attention to environmental degradation, human rights and social justice issues in Ogoniland and the wider Niger Delta.
He lauded the sacrifices of the Ogoni people to remain a significant part of Nigeria’s socio-political and democratic history, adding that the celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on past struggles and recommit to shared ideals.
The Rivers State Governor stressed that unity within MOSOP and Ogoni communities is crucial to advancing their collective interests, especially with the Federal Government’s ongoing dialogue aimed at addressing Ogoniland’s long-standing issues.
Fubara also reaffirmed the Rivers State Government’s support for a united Ogoni people, assuring that his administration will continue to support initiatives that promote peace, dialogue, reconciliation and sustainable development in Ogoniland and across the state.
