Remembrance Day Service For The Ogoni 9

cork | rights, freedoms and repression | news report

Monday November 09, 2009 12:36

by Philip Ikurusi - Niger Delta Awareness

The 10th of November 2009 will be the 14th anniversary of the judicial murder of the Ogoni 9.We continue to remember these incomparable martyrs for their sacrifice which was immeasurable and ultimate in all senses

Our people’s insistence on the principles of non-violence, environmental responsibility, fundamental human rights and democratic accountability are derived from what our martyrs were killed for. Oil exploration and irresponsible exploitation of our natural resources by hostile multi-nationals supported by violent and corrupt juntas and administrations have been the bane of our people.

Ogoni land is still polluted, our biodiversity has been affected ,our waters contaminated, our air poisonous, birth defects are not uncommon, mortality rate depressingly high , development activity derisive. Yet our people remain hopeful for eventual complete justice.

Recent news of settlement in the Class action case against Shell in the U.S has sent a misleading signal of resolution to the outstanding matter of the oil company’s culpability in the poor environmental condition of land and involvement in the murder of our patriots. The amount agreed can in no way compensate for what we have lost, neither can it take our community anywhere in terms of the need for sustainable rehabilitation, jobs, healthy and secure existence, a future fit for our children and the right to have a political voice to represent our people’s aspirations. The settlement of $15 Million Dollars is derisory in terms of the billions of dollars which Shell and its corrupt accomplicist have milked from Ogoniland.

Whilst we remember our often named patriots, Ken Saro Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levura, Felix Nuate, Baribor Beara, Barinen Kiobel, and John Kpuinee,we must also remember, pray and seek support for other Ogonis who were killed in the same period in the state’s attempt to break and silence our people. Many are still dying from the consequences of the brutal actions and neglect by the oil companies and successive Nigerian administrations.

Mosop is grateful to all those who have supported the struggle of the Ogoni people, we are grateful for the continuing support .

The struggle goes on.

Mosop - UK invites you to the 14th memorial service for the slained Ogoni nationalists.

Place - St. Pancras Church, Euston Road, London, NW1

Time - 09.00 A.M

Nearest Tube Station - Euston.

For and on behalf of Mosop

Gbenewa Phido

Harrison Neenwi