Youths from Ogoniland in Rivers State have expressed willingness to accept the proposed resumption of oil production in their area, provided that all stakeholders are included in the negotiation process.

Under the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP), the youths also urged the federal government to exonerate the late Ken Saro-Wiwa and others who were unjustly executed as a key precondition for restarting crude oil drilling.

NYCOP President, Barinuazor Emmanuel, stated this after a meeting in the Yeghe community, insisting that Saro-Wiwa and his comrades were innocent of the charges that led to their execution.

He also emphasized that NYCOP remains united following a reconciliation effort led by King Solomon Ndigbara, the Gbenemene Bua-Bori.

Speaking after the meeting, King Solomon urged the Federal Government to engage directly with the Ogoni people rather than politicians, questioning the sincerity of politicians involved in the ongoing discussions.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the University of Environment in Ogoniland and called for unity among the Ogoni people, warning that a divided house cannot stand.

During the meeting, NYCOP members passed a vote of confidence in their President, Emmanuel Barinuazor, pledging full support for his leadership. (The Nation)

•Ogoni people at the Peace and Freedom Centre in Bori, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State on Saturday, 8th Feb 2025 for Oil exploration resumption talks. Photo Credit: Dennis Naku