By Desmond Ejibas
Bori (Rivers) – The Ogoni Dialogue Committee on the Resumption of Oil Extraction in Ogoniland has concluded its consultations and will soon submit its findings to the Federal Government.
The committee’s Chairman, Prof. Don Baridam, disclosed this on Sunday during a final town hall meeting with stakeholders in Bori, Khana Local Government Area (LGA) of Rivers.
Baridam stated that the report to be presented to the Federal Government would reflect the collective views of the people of Ogoni.
According to him, the committee will harmonise its findings to produce a final position that will serve as the basis for negotiations with the government regarding the planned oil extraction.
“The dialogue committee remains committed to a robust consultation process that ensures Ogoni voices are not only heard but also considered before oil activities resumes,” he said.
Baridam assured that the perspective of residents from Nyo-Khana, Ken-Khana, and Babbe would also be incorporated into the committee’s negotiations with the government.
He noted that while grassroots consultations had been concluded, engagements with women, youths, and other interest groups would continue.
“We are pleased that our Ogoni diaspora community is also submitting their memoranda as we conclude our consultations with Ogoni communities today.
“It is essential that the final charter of demands we will present encapsulates the collective views of the Ogoni people,” he added.
Baridam commended President Bola Tinubu for signing into law the bill establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Saakpenwa.
He also praised the government for the accelerated construction of the Eleme Junction-Onne Section of the East West Road project, describing it as a proof of its commitment to addressing long-standing injustices in the region.
The dialogue chairman further expressed gratitude to the Ogoni people for their active participation throughout the consultations process.
Mr Dumnamene Dekor, the member representing Khana-Gokana Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, urged Ogonis to remain united in pursuit of a common goal.
He encouraged residents not to disregard the olive branch extended by President Tinubu to correct historical wrongs inflicted on the Ogoni people.
“The president cares about Ogonis and has invited us to meet with him to discuss our issues so we can heal the wounds of the past.
“So, I commend residents for participating in this process and assure them that the dialogue committee will be fair and transparent in submitting our views,” Dekor stated.
The federal lawmaker also thanked the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his commitment to the negotiation process between the government and the Ogoni people.
Dr Joi Nunieh, a former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), expressed confidence that the views of the people would not be compromised.
She praised the Federal Government for choosing dialogue over force in the proposed resumption of oil extraction in the area.
“The government has chosen to consult with the people rather than imposing the resumption of oil activities, which is commendable.
“Ogonis must now come together and seize this opportunity to present their demands and conditions for oil resumption.
“The dialogue committee has done an excellent job of ensuring inclusivity, and we can see the general consensus emerging from these discussions,” Nunieh added.
King Solomon Ndigbara, the Menebua of Bori, urged Ogoni youths to take ownership of the dialogue process and actively participate in the discussions.
