President Bola Tinubu has honoured the memories of the heroes of Ogoniland, who were executed 29 years ago for fighting to protect their environment.
Writer and activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and seven other sons of Ogoniland were sentenced to death and executed by hanging by the military government of Sani Abacha in 1995 for protesting against the degradation of their environment through oil exploration.
“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,” the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said in a statement on Monday.
“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.”
Tinubu paid tribute to prolific poet, author and playwright Saro-Wiwa and the others, saying: “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.”
According to Onanuga, 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 realised through constructive engagement and mutual respect.
Oil was explored in Ogoniland for many years. The struggles of Ogoni leaders to protect their environment from harmful oil exploration were met with severe repression, culminating in the tragic execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other leaders in 1995, Onanuga noted.
“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 said.
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