Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo and youth leaders from the four Ogoni local government areas of Rivers State have thrown their support behind the proposed resumption of oil exploration in their land.
However, they insist that youths and women must be actively involved in the decision-making process.
At an extraordinary stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt, youth representatives from Khana, Gokana, Tai, and Eleme Local Government Areas commended President Bola Tinubu for taking decisive steps to resolve the over 30-year-long Ogoni struggle for social, economic, and environmental justice, which led to the suspension of oil activities in the region.
In a communiqué presented by Legborsi Yamaabana, President of the Ogoni Youth Federation and Convener of the Ogoni Youth Stakeholders Meeting, the youths expressed confidence in the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to oversee the smooth commencement of oil production in Ogoniland.
They emphasised that any decision on selecting an investor for Oil Mining Licenses (OML) 11 and 51, covering the area must be preceded by meaningful engagement with the Ogoni people in a process that ensures their active participation and respects their right to free, prior, and informed consent.
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They extended appreciation to thr NSA Nuhu Ribadu, describing him as a “distinguished friend of the Ogoni people” for his commitment to reviving the Ogoni economy.
They also acknowledged the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, commending them for setting aside political differences to facilitate the meeting with the President.
Speaking at the event, Joseph Yobo urged the Ogoni people to embrace the opportunity with an open mind, emphasizing the need to move forward.
He said he believes that President Tinubu with his deep understanding of the Ogoni struggle as a pro-democrat will ensure real benefits for the people.
Other leaders, including Walter Ejire-Olaka, President of the Eleme Youth Council, and Solomon Lenu, President of the Ogoni Development Drive, also backed the resolutions.
They express optimism that a fresh approach to negotiations in Ogoni could transform oil exploration from a source of poverty to a vehicle for prosperity in the country.
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