Ogoni People Conditions Six Demands for Oil Resumption

Following the Federal Government’s plan to resume oil exploration in Ogoni land, the Ogoni people held a dialogue in Bori, the traditional headquarters of Ogoniland, to discuss the resumption of oil exploration. 

They presented six key demands to the federal government before any operations could begin. A major demand was the urgent completion of the Eleme Junction-Onne section of the East-West Road, which has become a death trap. They demanded that the road must be fixed immediately.

The second demand was the presidential assent to the bill establishing the Federal University of Environmental Technology Ogoni. They argued that the institution is crucial for the region’s educational advancement. 

Renovation of all secondary schools in Ogoniland was another demand made. The people insisted that their schools must be upgraded to provide quality education for the younger generation.

Similarly, they demanded the renovation of all hospitals in Ogoniland. They expressed concerns over the poor state of healthcare facilities, which have left residents struggling to access proper medical care.

Demanding more, the people stated that Ogoni indigenes should be given special consideration in NNPC recruitment. They stresed that since their land contributes to Nigeria’s oil wealth, they deserve employment opportunities.

Finally, the people called for the creation of Ogoni State. They argued that a separate state would grant them greater political and economic autonomy, ensuring their voices are properly represented.

In response, the federal government signed the bill establishing the Federal University of Environmental Technology Ogoni into law. This was seen as a major victory for the people.

The government also assured Ogonis that concrete steps have been taken to fast-track the completion of the East-West Road. They promised visible progress on the project soon.

The dialogue was attended by prominent Ogoni leaders, including Barr. Ledum Mitee, Senator Barry Mpigi, Hon. Martins Nwigbo, Barr. Joy Nunieh, Monday Dumiye, and Bishop Ignatius Kattey, among others.