By Ayomide Otitoju
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on Ogoni leaders and stakeholders to set aside internal divisions and embrace unity as the community marked its annual Ogoni Day on January 4.
In a statement released by Dr Honour Sirawoo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communication, Fubara described Ogoni Day as a symbol of resilience, identity, and the long-standing struggle for environmental justice and equity. He also commended the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) for its peaceful advocacy, noting its role in bringing global attention to environmental degradation, human rights, and social justice issues in Ogoniland and the wider Niger Delta.
Fubara praised the sacrifices of the Ogoni people and urged them to remain an integral part of Nigeria’s socio-political and democratic history. He highlighted that the celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on past struggles and recommit to shared ideals.
The governor stressed that unity within MOSOP and the wider Ogoni communities is essential to advancing the collective interest of the people, especially amid ongoing Federal Government dialogues addressing long-standing grievances in Ogoniland.
Fubara reaffirmed the Rivers State Government’s support for a united Ogoni people, pledging continued backing for initiatives that promote peace, dialogue, reconciliation, and sustainable development in Ogoniland and across the state.
