A group under the Ogoni Voice Achievers Foundation has expressed strong opposition to the federal government’s plan to restart oil exploration in Ogoniland. The foundation is demanding that no operations commence until a full environmental cleanup is completed and historical justice is served, including the exoneration of late Ken Saro-Wiwa and other Ogoni activists.
According to Gospel Barifii Gokana, Founder and Board of Trustees Chairman of the group, the government’s approach is “deeply flawed, unjust, and unacceptable.” He warned that resuming oil exploration without addressing decades of neglect and pollution could lead to social unrest and renewed conflict. The group’s stance is in response to reports that the government has justified its plans for oil restart on the grounds of economic recovery and energy needs.
However, Gokana argued that the government’s position is based on a lack of genuine consultation with the Ogoni people. He noted that only a select few have been invited into closed-door negotiations, which fails to meet the standard of free, prior, and informed consent as required by international human rights norms. Gokana also criticized the government’s lack of transparency, accusing it of making decisions in Abuja offices without considering the historical suffering of Ogoni communities.
The Ogoni Voice Achievers Foundation’s rejection of the government’s plan highlights the long-standing environmental and social concerns in Ogoniland. The region has suffered from decades of oil pollution, which has had devastating effects on the environment and local communities. The foundation’s demands for environmental cleanup and historical justice are seen as crucial steps towards addressing these concerns and ensuring that the rights of the Ogoni people are respected.
The federal government’s plan to restart oil exploration in Ogoniland has significant implications for the region’s environment and communities. The Ogoni Voice Achievers Foundation’s opposition to the plan serves as a reminder of the need for genuine consultation and transparency in decision-making processes. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the foundation’s demands and whether a resolution can be reached that balances economic needs with environmental and social concerns.
