Tinubu honours Ken Saro-Wiwa, other Ogoni martyrs

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering dialogue, reconciliation and healing among all ethnic nationalities that make up the great nation.

In a special message commemorating the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, President Tinubu according to the statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said he “stands in solidarity with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and all Ogoni citizens to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the Ogoni nation’s interests.”

He said this year’s commemoration, themed “After Price, Comes Prise,” reflected “our collective commitment to acknowledging the pain and the lessons of the past as we aspire for a brighter future.”

The statement quoted the President as saying: “We honour their memory by recognising the sacrifices made and pledging to strive for a future characterised by peace, justice, and sustainable development for all communities, particularly those in the Niger Delta.”

The President reaffirmed that his administration will actively address historical grievances and work towards building a united and prosperous nation for future generations, adding: “This vision will be realised through constructive engagement and mutual respect.”

Oil was first commercially discovered in Oloibiri, Ogoniland, in 1958. The subsequent struggles of Ogoni leaders to protect their environment from harmful oil exploration were met with severe repression, culminating in the tragic execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other leaders in 1995.

“As we remember the Ogoni Martyrs, let us honour their legacy by committing to a future where such injustices are no longer tolerated and where the voices of all Nigerians are heard and respected,” Tinubu said.