November 12, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has paid posthumous tribute to the late environmental activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and eight other Ogoni leaders executed under the military regime of General Sani Abacha in 1995.
In a statement released late Monday by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President expressed solidarity with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People and the entire Ogoni community on the occasion of the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day.
“President Tinubu 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,” the statement read.
Ken Saro-Wiwa, who led the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, was executed on November 10, 1995, along with Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine. They were sentenced to death by a military tribunal established by the Abacha regime and executed by hanging.
Tinubu used the remembrance to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “After Price, Comes Prise,” he acknowledged the sacrifices of the Ogoni Martyrs, 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 further pledged to address longstanding grievances and foster a united and prosperous Nigeria for future generations, noting the damaging effects of prolonged oil exploration on Ogoniland.
Tinubu emphasised the significance of respecting the struggles of Ogoni leaders who sought to protect their land from the adverse impacts of crude oil extraction—a fight that ultimately led to brutal repression and executions 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 stated.
The President assured that his vision for the country would be achieved through constructive engagement and mutual respect, urging Nigerians to learn from the painful lessons of the past as the nation builds toward a brighter future.
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