The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has criticised the Federal Government for allegedly excluding key stakeholders from plans to resume oil production in Ogoni land, Rivers State.
MOSOP, the umbrella organisation representing the Ogoni people, warned that bypassing recognised leadership risks jeopardising ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts crucial for sustainable development in the region.
In a statement released on Monday in Port Harcourt, signed by President Olu Andah Wai-Ogosu alongside leaders Prince Biira and Fegalo Nsuke, MOSOP expressed concerns over a Federal Government meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 21, 2025, in Abuja. The meeting is reportedly set to address the resumption of oil production in Ogoni land.
“The attention of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People has been drawn to media reports relating to a meeting called by the Presidency on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, in Abuja, to discuss issues about the resumption of oil production in Ogoni,” the statement said.
“While we are not opposed to oil resumption in Ogoni, and considering the impact of the oil crisis on the Ogoni people, we expected proper consultation and inclusivity in conversations relating thereto.
“Hitherto, the leadership of MOSOP has not been consulted. It is, therefore, surprising that MOSOP learnt of such a meeting in the media. Any discussion concerning oil resumption in Ogoni and related matters cannot be successful without the involvement of the leadership of MOSOP.”
Oil production in Ogoni land ceased in 1993 following widespread protests against environmental damage caused by Shell Petroleum Development Company’s operations. The resulting unrest forced Shell to suspend its activities in the area.
MOSOP reiterated that unilateral actions by the Federal Government could derail peace-building efforts, which recently culminated in the successful celebration of Ogoni Day on January 4, 2025.
The organisation called on local and external interest groups to support reconciliation efforts and adopt a collaborative approach to addressing longstanding issues.
“It is important to state that peace and mutual understanding remain the foundation for resolving the challenges of oil resumption in Ogoni,” MOSOP stated.
The Federal Government has yet to respond to MOSOP’s concerns, as stakeholders anticipate the outcome of Tuesday’s Abuja meeting.
