Olayiwola Matthew
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed his gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for granting a Posthumous Pardon to the Ogoni 9 and conferring National Honours on the Ogoni 4.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Governor Fubara thanked the President following the Council of State’s unanimous approval of the decision during its meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.
The Ogoni 9 — Ken Saro-Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gboko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine — were posthumously pardoned for their “exemplary service to Nigeria and their efforts to promote reconciliation within the Ogoni community.”
Similarly, the Ogoni 4 — Chiefs Albert Badey, Edward Kobani, Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage — received National Honours “in recognition of their patriotism and contributions to reconciliation in the Ogoni community.”
Reiterating the Rivers State Government’s appreciation to President Tinubu, the Council of State, and all Nigerians for acknowledging the sacrifices of the Ogoni 13, Governor Fubara said the Presidential Pardon and Honours would foster genuine reconciliation, lasting peace, and unity among Ogoni communities, while also supporting sustainable development in the State.
He assured the President of his administration’s full commitment to promoting reconciliation among all Ogoni people and expressed optimism that the Federal Government’s gesture would restore hope and trust in the affected communities.
Governor Fubara urged the people of Rivers State, especially the Ogoni, to regard the Federal Government’s action as a major step towards meeting their long-standing demands. He emphasised that the government’s investments in the region reflect its dedication to improving the welfare of the people and advancing the development of Ogoniland.
He also encouraged residents to align themselves with government policies and programmes at all levels to achieve the broader goals of governance in Rivers State and Nigeria.