- No New Crisis: MOSOP is confident Tinubu won’t ignite an oil crisis.
- Private Interests: Concerns raised about private sector pressure for oil resumption.
- 2027 Elections: MOSOP believes the government will avoid Niger Delta unrest before the elections.
- Call for Dialogue: MOSOP urges the government to accept their offer for dialogue to resolve the Ogoni issue.
Ogoni Crisis: Is it Really Over?
In a recent address at the MOSOP secretariat in Bori, President Fegalo Nsuke met with stakeholders, including coordinators of the movement. He voiced hopes that as Nigeria gears up for the 2027 elections, the Federal Government will steer clear of actions that could spark crises in Ogoni or the wider Niger Delta region.
Nsuke emphasized, “The recent move to force a restart of oil production in Ogoni is one of the most deceptive and fraudulent attempts by the oil industry…to trample on our rights, ignore legitimate concerns and demands for justice.”
Why MOSOP is Optimistic
MOSOP believes President Tinubu will not risk the reputational damage that a forceful resumption of oil production would bring. “It will be better for them to let the sleeping dog lie than hurt the reputation of the government,” Nsuke stated.
He urged the Ogoni people to remain calm, assuring them that the Federal Government will not risk the consequences of a crisis in the Niger Delta, especially with the 2027 general elections approaching.
MOSOP’s Plan of Action
MOSOP plans to ramp up civic education across Ogoni kingdoms and chapters. The goal is to ensure the people remain calm in the face of “brazen threats and provocations” to resume oil production without proper engagement.
“We have gone through a lot. We are doing our best to achieve a resolution and hope that the government will accept our offer for dialogue,” Nsuke added.
The Stakes for Tinubu
Nsuke argues that any attempt to resume oil production in Ogoni without addressing their concerns would be an “ambush” on the president. He believes that if Tinubu yields to pressure from private interests, he risks a global image crisis and strong resistance at home.
Conversely, if Tinubu listens to MOSOP and resolves the Ogoni issue, it would boost his reputation and gain him support from the Niger Delta region and the international community.
A Call for Dialogue
As Nigeria moves closer to another election, MOSOP is urging the government to accept their offer for dialogue to finally resolve the long-standing Ogoni issue.
The Ogoni People: A History of Struggle
The Ogoni people have a long history of struggle against the environmental degradation caused by oil exploration. The activities of oil companies have led to widespread pollution of land and water, impacting the health and livelihoods of the Ogoni people. The MOSOP, founded by the late Ken Saro-Wiwa, has been at the forefront of this struggle, advocating for environmental justice and greater autonomy for the Ogoni people.
Looking Ahead
The coming months will be crucial in determining the future of oil production in Ogoniland. Whether President Tinubu will prioritize short-term economic gains or address the long-standing grievances of the Ogoni people remains to be seen. The call for dialogue from MOSOP offers a pathway to a peaceful resolution, but it requires a willingness from all parties to engage in good faith.
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