The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has raised fresh concerns over what it described as continued political marginalisation of the Ogoni ethnic group in Rivers State, warning that unresolved grievances could threaten ongoing discussions around oil resumption in Ogoniland under the broader Ogoni survival struggle.
Key Highlights:
- MOSOP warns of renewed opposition to oil resumption if marginalisation continues
- Group alleges exclusion of Ogoni politicians in 2027 governorship race
- Accuses political actors of influencing primaries against collective interest
- Calls on President Tinubu to address long-standing Ogoni grievances
- Threatens political mobilisation ahead of 2027 general elections
The group expressed disappointment that no credible Ogoni candidates have emerged in the build-up to the 2027 governorship elections, describing the situation as a sign of deepening political inequality and injustice against the community.
In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Mr Imeabe Oscar, MOSOP said the perceived exclusion of Ogoni people from key political contests could undermine trust in efforts aimed at restoring oil production in the area.
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The group also accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of aligning with select Ogoni politicians whose actions, it claimed, do not reflect the collective will of the people.
According to MOSOP, these political actors played influential roles in recent party primaries in ways that disadvantaged broader Ogoni interests.
“We urge President Bola Tinubu to understand our plight. Having contributed immensely to the economy of the state, region, and nation, we deserve the opportunity to govern our own state,” the statement read.
MOSOP further warned that continued political exclusion could jeopardise confidence in negotiations surrounding the planned resumption of oil activities in Ogoniland.
The group maintained that some Ogoni politicians aligning with external political interests had, over time, failed to represent the aspirations of the people.
“They are not in a position to negotiate our political fate or collective will,” the statement added.
MOSOP also hinted at possible political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying the coming polls would serve as a test of the community’s political strength and unity.
The renewed tension adds another layer to the long-standing Ogoni survival agitation, which has combined demands for environmental justice, political inclusion, and equitable resource control in the Niger Delta.
