Port Harcourt — The President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), Fegalo Nsuke, has assured the Ogoni ethnic nationality in Rivers State that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is unlikely to authorize a forceful resumption of oil production in Ogoni land, warning that such an action could spark dire consequences for national stability and the government’s reputation.
Speaking at the MOSOP secretariat in Bori, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, during a meeting with key stakeholders and kingdom coordinators of the movement, Nsuke expressed deep concern over recent moves by certain private interests and oil industry players attempting to restart oil operations in the area without proper engagement with the people. He described the move as deceptive, fraudulent, and a direct assault on the rights of the Ogoni people.
Nsuke emphasized his belief that President Tinubu would not succumb to pressure from these private interests, especially with the 2027 general elections drawing near. He warned that any attempt to impose oil production by force would not only provoke fierce resistance from the Ogoni people but also severely damage the government’s image both locally and internationally.
“The current push to resume oil extraction in Ogoni is one of the most manipulative and underhanded schemes we’ve seen. It completely disregards the legitimate concerns and demands of the Ogoni people,” Nsuke stated. “While I know any such forceful action will be met with unavoidable resistance, I trust that Mr President will act wisely and not ignite a crisis in the Niger Delta just to appease vested interests.”
He added that the government should learn from past mistakes and avoid repeating actions that have historically led to unrest in the region. According to him, initiating oil activities without the involvement or consent of MOSOP and the Ogoni people amounts to an ambush against the President.
“If President Tinubu listens to those pushing for a forceful restart, he will be faced with both domestic resistance and an international image crisis. However, if he chooses dialogue and listens to MOSOP’s position, it will open the door for lasting peace and give his administration credibility in the eyes of the Niger Delta and the global community.”
Nsuke urged Ogoni residents to remain peaceful and resist provocation, revealing plans to initiate civic education campaigns across Ogoni communities. He stressed that the movement was doing everything possible to pursue dialogue and peaceful resolution of the long-standing oil conflict.
“You have endured enough pain over the years. We are advocating a resolution based on justice, and we hope the government will see reason and embrace the opportunity for dialogue,” he concluded.
