Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has called on the people of Ogoni and their umbrella body, the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, to unite and work together to achieve their set goals.
Fubara made the call in a felicitation message on the occasion of the celebration of Ogoni Day, which holds annually on January 4.
The governor’s message was contained in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday morning by the Permanent Secretary of the state Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, and sent to newsmen.
Fubara described the event as a powerful symbol of resilience, identity, and the historic struggle of the Ogoni nation.
It partly read: “The Governor also paid tribute to the trailblazing role of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, whose peaceful struggle brought global attention to issues of environmental justice, equity, and human rights in Ogoniland and the rest of the Niger Delta region.”
He noted that the sacrifices and courage of the Ogoni people remain a defining chapter in Nigeria’s socio-political and democratic history.
The governor emphasised that Ogoni Day provides an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals that have sustained their struggle over the decades.
“Therefore, all Ogoni leaders and stakeholders must eschew disunity and internal divisions within MOSOP and the wider Ogoni community. Unity of purpose is critical to advancing the collective interest of the people.
“This call for unity is especially important at this time when the Federal Government has shown demonstrable commitment through the ongoing dialogue process aimed at addressing the injustices and lingering challenges of the past,” Fubara stated.
He added, “The Rivers State Government remains steadfast in its support for a united MOSOP and a united Ogoni people.
“As a government, we are committed to supporting all genuine efforts that promote peace, dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable development in Ogoniland and the rest of the state.”
