The All Nigerian Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders have firmly declared that Nigeria must never return to military rule, as they commemorate the 29th anniversary of the tragic death of Ken Saro-Wiwa.
Saro-Wiwa, a celebrated writer and environmental activist from the Ogoni ethnic group in Rivers State, was executed on November 10, 1995, by the regime of the late General Sani Abacha, following a widely criticized trial.
In a statement released on Monday, President Bola Tinubu, through his spokesperson Bayo Onaniga, paid tribute to Saro-Wiwa and the eight other Ogoni martyrs executed alongside him, pledging that his administration will address historical grievances and work towards justice and reconciliation.
The group, led by conveners Oladotun Hassan and Matthew Dighi, expressed their deepest condolences to the family of Ken Saro-Wiwa, the Niger Delta region, and the entire Nigerian nation.
They highlighted the continuing struggles facing the country, including systemic corruption and ongoing challenges in the oil and gas sector, which remain prevalent nearly three decades after Saro-Wiwa’s death.
In response to these challenges, over 707 youth leaders from across Nigeria’s ethnic nationalities will convene for a national conference on November 25, 2024, at the Dr Obi Wali International Conference Centre in Port Harcourt, hosted by the Rivers State Government.
The conference will focus on advancing the rights and welfare of Nigerian youth, fostering peace, and promoting national development.
While acknowledging President Tinubu’s efforts to address issues in the Niger Delta, the group urged for more immediate and actionable solutions to the pressing environmental challenges facing local communities.
By honouring Saro-Wiwa’s legacy, the group seeks to “inspire positive change and reaffirm their commitment to a democratic Nigeria, ensuring the country never returns to military rule.
