Monarchs, MOSOP commend Tinubu for approving Ogoni university

Stakeholders in Ogoniland, including the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) and traditional rulers, have lauded President Bola Tinubu for signing the bill establishing the University of Environment and Technology in Tai, Ogoni.

The bill was signed in a ceremony at the State House in Abuja on Monday with key officials present, including Senator Mpigi Barinada of Ogoniland, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa, and Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila.

Following the signing, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges faced by the Ogoni people, including their historical struggles with environmental degradation. He emphasized that establishing the university is an important step in addressing these issues.

The signing follows a recent meeting between Tinubu and Ogoni leaders, where the President also expressed his intent to resume oil exploration in the region, directing Ribadu to lead negotiations with all stakeholders.

The Paramount Ruler of Bagha Kingdom, Suanu Baridam, who was part of the delegation, praised the university bill’s approval but emphasized the need for immediate funding to begin operations. “Now that the bill has been signed, the next step is the release of funds for the university,” Baridam said.

MOSOP leader Fegalo Nsuke praised Tinubu, noting that the university’s establishment will contribute significantly to Ogoni’s development. He also called for more support, highlighting the importance of the region to Nigeria’s economy.

Activist Celestine Akpobari, however, cautioned that the university’s approval should not be tied to the resumption of oil exploration. “The university is a step towards restitution for the environmental damage, not a trade-off for reopening oil wells,” he said.

Meanwhile, oil-bearing communities in Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State have expressed concerns about being excluded from oil exploration negotiations. They have warned of mass action if they are not included in future discussions.

In a statement, the communities emphasized that farmers and fishermen, who have suffered from past oil pollution, must play a leading role in negotiations. They warned the Federal Government that any process excluding them would be rejected.

With the university bill signed and discussions on oil resumption ongoing, Ogoni now stands at a critical crossroads where the government must balance development with the region’s historical grievances.