Tensions Rise As MOSOP Slams FG For Ignoring Key Stakeholders In Ogoni Oil Talks

Tensions Rise As MOSOP Slams FG For Ignoring Key Stakeholders In Ogoni Oil Talks

The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has strongly criticized the Federal Government for its exclusion of key stakeholders in discussions regarding the potential resumption of oil production in Ogoniland, Rivers State.

In a statement released by MOSOP on Monday, the group warned that any efforts to restart oil operations in the region without engaging relevant stakeholders could provoke unrest. The organization emphasized that such actions could jeopardize ongoing peace efforts and undermine development initiatives in the area.

MOSOP, represented by President Olu Andah Wai-Ogosu and other leaders including Prince Biira and Fegalo Nsuke, made it clear that they were not consulted regarding a planned meeting between some Ogoni representatives and a government delegation scheduled for January 21, 2025, in Abuja. MOSOP officials expressed their surprise upon learning of the meeting through media reports.

The group underlined that the oil crisis, which has plagued Ogoni since 1993, cannot be addressed without involving its leadership. Oil production in Ogoniland was halted after a tense conflict with Shell, leading to the company’s withdrawal from the region.

The statement reads: “While MOSOP is not opposed to the resumption of oil production in Ogoni, we demand a full and inclusive consultation process. We cannot support any meeting on this issue unless the leadership of MOSOP is involved.”

MOSOP also highlighted that it has made significant strides in promoting peace and unity within the Ogoni community, especially following recent progress made during Ogoni Day celebrations on January 4, 2025. The group voiced concern that an exclusive government meeting could derail these peace-building efforts and provoke civil unrest in the region.

“We urge all stakeholders, both within and outside Ogoni, to support the ongoing peace process,” the statement concluded. MOSOP has called for calm and peaceful dialogue as it seeks a resolution to the matter.

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