The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has urged the Federal Government to prioritize peaceful and transparent discussions with community stakeholders before restarting oil exploration in Ogoniland.
MOSOP President Fegalo Nsuke released a statement Thursday in Port Harcourt. He warned that any attempt to resume oil production without proper consultation would face resistance.
Nsuke stressed the need for honest dialogue. He said, “We are open to cooperation on any initiative that is transparent, honest, and genuinely aimed at addressing the developmental concerns of the Ogoni people.”
Ogoni Development Authority Proposal
Reaffirming MOSOP’s commitment to peace, Nsuke referred to a proposal submitted to the Federal Government in 2020. This proposal, approved by MOSOP’s Steering Committee, recommends creating an Ogoni Development Authority (ODA). The plan proposes that 20 percent of profits from natural resource extraction in Ogoniland should go directly into Ogoni development.
The Forum of Kingdom Coordinators and Chapter Leaders (FKCCL-MOSOP) endorsed this proposal. Nsuke noted that it received widespread support during the Ogoni National Congress held on November 30, 2024.
Criticism of Current Oil Resumption Talks
Nsuke criticized recent efforts led by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) to restart oil activities in Ogoni. He claimed the talks deliberately excluded MOSOP leadership, which he described as the true voice of the people.
“This process lacks credibility,” he said. “ONSA is trying to manipulate the situation by sidelining MOSOP and giving the false impression that the Ogoni people are unsure of what they want.”
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to suspend oil resumption plans until the Federal Government addresses the resolutions adopted during Ogoni congresses.
“The Ogoni people have made their demands clear. They must not be ignored or bypassed through secret negotiations,” Nsuke concluded.
