Korede Abdullah in Lagos
President Bola Tinubu has assured Ogoni leaders that his administration will prioritize peace, justice, and sustainable development in the region.
Speaking at a meeting at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday, Tinubu emphasized the need for unity and reconciliation, urging the Ogoni people to set aside historical grievances and work together to achieve peace, development, and a clean environment.
“We cannot in any way rewrite history, but we can correct some anomalies of the past going forward. We cannot heal the wounds if we continue to be angry,” Tinubu said.
He directed the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to coordinate negotiations and called for inclusive consultation and mutual understanding.
Tinubu also commended the delegation for embracing the Federal Government-led dialogue and emphasized the need for collaboration, trust, and inclusiveness to resolve lingering issues in the region.
“We must work together with mutual trust. Go back home, do more consultations, and embrace others. We must make this trip worthwhile by bringing peace, development, and a clean environment back to Ogoniland,” the President added.
Governor Fubara of Rivers State, who attended the meeting, thanked the President for his support of the Ogoni people and pledged the delegation’s commitment to adhering to the President’s instructions.
The meeting was seen as a significant step towards finding lasting solutions to the challenges facing Ogoniland, with the President urging all parties to work together to achieve peace, development, and a clean environment.
