President Bola Tinubu on Monday assured that his government will work hard to address historical grievances in the country as a deliberate effort to build a united and prosperous Nigeria for future generations.
The President said this in a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onqnuga in a special message commemorating the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day.
Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day is celebrated annually to mark the death of ‘The Ogoni Nine’, a group of nine activists from the Ogoni region who opposed the operating practices of the Royal Dutch Shell oil corporation but were executed by the military regime of General Sani Abacha following an uprising by 300,000 Ogonis against Shell’s pollution.
Ken Saro-Wiwa, a writer and human rights activist, and eight others on 30th – 31st October 1995 were convicted and sentenced to death and subsequently hanged on 10th November the same year after
President Tinubu in the statement Monday said that he 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.
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“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”, the President said.
The President also promised that his administration was committed to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among all ethnic nationalities that make up Nigeria.
He said this year’s commemoration, themed “After Price, Comes Prise,” reflects the country’s collective commitment to acknowledging the pain and the lessons of the past while aspiring 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.
“This vision will be realized through constructive engagement and mutual respect,” Tinubu added.
