Communities in Ogoniland have voiced deep frustration over the Federal Government's continued silence months after receiving a critical report on the potential resumption of oil exploration in the region.
Growing Mistrust in Government Process
The Dialogue Committee chaired by Prof. Don Baridam, established to engage local residents about possible oil production restart, submitted its findings to the Presidency in September, yet community leaders report receiving no feedback. This lack of communication is heightening existing mistrust about the government's commitment to addressing the long-standing challenges facing the Ogoni people.
Representatives from Korokoro, K-Dere, and other Ogoni areas expressed their concerns during a one-day stakeholders' dialogue organized by the Lokiaka Community Development Center in Port Harcourt. The event aimed to revisit government consultations and provide communities with a platform to clearly state their expectations.
Environmental and Social Concerns Take Center Stage
Martha Agbani, Executive Director of Lokiaka Community Development Center, emphasized that after more than three decades without oil extraction, many young residents don't fully comprehend the implications of petroleum operations. She stressed that despite ongoing clean-up efforts, Ogoniland continues to suffer from legacy pollution, poor health outcomes, and persistent hydrocarbon contamination.
"Any discussion about resuming oil production must be grounded in justice, free prior and informed consent, and adherence to the Ogoni Bill of Rights," Agbani stated. "The people demanded a social licence, respect for their rights, and exoneration of those killed during the crises. These issues cannot be ignored."
Environmental management consultant Erabanabari Kobah from K-Dere reinforced these concerns, warning that the Ogoni environment remains too fragile to withstand another phase of oil extraction. He noted that the land hasn't been fully remediated or restored, yet discussions about renewed oil operations are intensifying.
"When I was growing up, you could drink from the stream. Today you cannot," Kobah lamented. "The environment that supported past generations can no longer sustain the present one. What will future generations inherit if we continue like this?"
Community Demands for Transparency and Preparation
Barbra Sam-Nordum, a participant from the Korokoro community in Tai Local Government Area, acknowledged that oil resumption could bring opportunities but insisted the government must first invest in human capital, skills acquisition, and infrastructure.
"We need empowerment, skills development, and infrastructure before operations begin," Sam-Nordum emphasized. "Our youths must be prepared to occupy key positions in the companies that will operate here."
The dialogue concluded with strong calls for transparency, environmental safety, and equitable benefits before any move toward oil resumption in Ogoniland is considered. Participants demanded a comprehensive impact assessment to determine whether the ecosystem can support new oil operations without worsening socio-economic and environmental conditions.
