The traditional ruler of Barako Ancient Community in Rivers State, Kadilo Kabari, has reiterated the call for the implementation of the Ogoni Bill of Rights, emphasizing the necessity for justice and development in Ogoniland.
This appeal was made in a statement on Sunday during the Uula-Mii Giaa/Lol-Giaa Tor Festival, an annual event that signifies the commencement of a new planting season in Ogoniland.
Kabari emphasized the need to address the long-standing grievances of the Ogoni people, highlighting reconciliation, compensation, and infrastructure development as critical issues.
He stressed that unresolved injustices from past conflicts remain a heavy burden on the community’s conscience, calling for concrete actions to ensure justice and healing.
“With all the blood that has been spilled on Ogoni soil or by Ogoni people, there are spiritual cries for justice. This should be addressed by clearing the names of the Ogoni Four, achieving holistic reconciliation of bereaved families before the exoneration of the Ogoni Nine, conducting proper funeral rites, and providing compensation for all lives lost in the dark days, including that of Keesiop Gboro Aakol, a son of Barako,” Kabari said.
The Monarch also advocated for economic revitalization in Ogoniland, particularly in the oil and gas sector.
He called for the resumption of exploration and production at Yormene Well 13 of the Bomu oil fields in Barako.
Additionally, Kabari proposed harnessing Barako’s vast gas reserves for large-scale energy infrastructure, offering community land for a gas-powered energy plant or turbine to enhance local and national electricity supply.
“These, along with revamping the community health center and reinstating the scholarships previously provided by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to Barako students as a host community, will help meet their yearnings, among other needs,” he added.
Ken Saro-Wiwa, a prominent Ogoni activist and environmentalist, was hanged on November 10, 1995, along with eight others, for advocating environmental protection and the human rights of the Ogoni people.
His execution by the Nigerian military regime drew widespread international condemnation and remains a symbol of the struggle for environmental justice in Ogoniland.
