President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate restoration of oil production in Ogoni land, Rivers State, as part of renewed efforts to boost Nigeria’s crude output and strengthen the economy.
The President also paid tribute to the Ogoni Four. Chief Edward Kobani, Chief Albert Badey, Chief Samuel Orage, and Chief Theophilus Orage whose deaths in 1994 remain a symbol of the Niger Delta struggle for justice.
Oil activities in Ogoni land were halted nearly three decades ago following environmental devastation, human rights abuses, and widespread resistance by local communities. The killing of environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others in 1995 drew international condemnation and intensified global scrutiny of oil operations in the region.
In his directive, Tinubu emphasized that the resumption of production would be carried out under strict environmental and social responsibility standards. He assured that the initiative would not only revitalize Nigeria’s oil sector but also prioritize “sustainable development, justice, and fairness” for the Ogoni people.“The sacrifices of the Ogoni Four and all who stood for justice must never be forgotten,”
Tinubu said, adding that his administration is committed to ensuring their struggle leads to tangible benefits for the community. The planned restoration is expected to attract foreign investment, create jobs, and improve national revenue. However, analysts warn that failure to secure genuine community trust and enforce environmental safeguards could reopen old wounds.
Political observers describe Tinubu’s dual gesture, ordering the resumption of oil production and honoring the Ogoni Four, as both an economic strategy and a reconciliatory move to rebuild confidence in the Niger Delta.
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