Chairman of the Rivers State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bro Felix Obuah, says the Ogoni people deserve special commendation for their sacrifice and the role they played in paving the way for the nation’s nascent democracy.

He said this through a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Jerry Needam, to congratulate the Ogoni people today, November 10, 2015 on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the execution of renowned environmentalist, and Ogoni hero, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and others who lost their lives for the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria.

According to Bro Obuah, though Ken Saro-Wiwa and others killed in controversial circumstances by the late Sani Abacha during his days as military ruler are dead, they still live on, having left a lasting legacy and everlasting memories in the hearts of Nigerians.

He described the death of these Ogoni heroes as the seed of democracy and respect for humanity in Nigeria today.

Bro Obuah noted that it was in appreciation of the contributions and sacrifice of the Ogonis, that the State Governor, Chief Barr Nyesom Wike, renamed the State Polytechnic, Bori, to Ken Saro-Wiwa Polytechnic, Bori, and appointed worthy Ogoni sons and daughters into positions of trust and responsibility in his administration.

He further commended the Ogoni people for their understanding, patience and love for Governor Wike as demonstrated by their massive votes for him in the last general elections.

The State PDP boss urged the Ogoni people not to relent in their trust and support for Gov Wike, assuring that their great sacrifices and self denials for the progress and development of our State and country will never be in vain as their welfare will continue to be among Gov Wike’s top priorities.

•Photo shows late Ogoni hero, Ken Saro-Wiwa.