President Tinubu Honours Ken Saro-Wiwa, Eight Others, Reaffirms Commitment To Reconciliation, Environmental Justice
The president expressed solidarity with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and Ogoni citizens at large, recognising the sacrifices of these martyrs who fought to protect the Ogoni land from environmental degradation.
President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other leaders who fought to protect their community’s right to a safe environment free from harmful oil exploration.
The president expressed solidarity with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and Ogoni citizens at large, recognising the sacrifices of these martyrs who fought to protect the Ogoni land from environmental degradation.
“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,” President Tinubu stated.
He emphasised the need for unity and healing across all ethnic groups in Nigeria.
In his statement, which was released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and peace-building among the diverse nationalities that make up Nigeria.
This year’s commemoration, themed “After Price, Comes Prise,” reflects our collective commitment to acknowledging the pain and the lessons of the past as we aspire for a brighter future.
He said, “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.
According to Tinubu, The vision will be realised through constructive engagement and mutual respect.
“Oil was explored in Ogoniland for many years. The 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”, President Tinubu added.