Governor Siminalayi Fubara of River’s, has expressed gratitude to President BolaTinubu for granting posthumous pardons to the Ogoni 9 and conferring national honors on the Ogoni 4.
Governor Fubara said this while reacting to the unanimous ratification of Mr President’s decision by the Council of State during a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Thursday. He spoke in Government House, Port Harcourt on Friday.
The Ogoni 9, comprising Ken Saro-Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gboko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine, were granted posthumous pardons for their exemplary service to Nigeria and their efforts to promote reconciliation within the Ogoni community.
The Ogoni 4, including Chiefs Albert Badey, Edward Kobani, Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage, were awarded national honours for their patriotism and contributions to promoting reconciliation in the Ogoni community.
Governor Fubara stated that the presidential pardon and national honours would promote genuine reconciliation, guarantee enduring peace and unity within the Ogoni communities, and accelerate sustainable development in the state.
He reassured President Tinubu of the state government’s commitment to the total reconciliation of all Ogoni people and expressed optimism that this decision will bring renewed hope and restore confidence in the Ogoni communities.
The governor appealed to the people of the state, particularly the Ogoni people, to see the federal government’s decision as a significant step towards addressing their long-standing demands.
He encouraged them to key into government policies and programmes at all levels to achieve the purpose of governance in the state and Nigeria.
The state government and the people of Rivers appreciate President Tinubu’s bold decision, which is seen as a testament to his commitment to the well-being of the people and the development of Ogoniland.
