Oil Resumption: Doubts Emerge Over Ogoni Peace Dialogue Amidst Internal Rifts

A cloud of frustration and distrust hangs over the peace process designed to diplomatically restart oil exploration in Ogoni land after a 32-year hiatus. The initiative, established in January 2025 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aims to resolve issues surrounding oil production resumption and rebuild trust between the Ogoni people and the federal government.

The Ogoni Dialogue Committee (ODC) was tasked with engaging local stakeholders. The seriousness of the government's approach was underscored by a personal visit from the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to assess the situation on December 22, 2025. However, recent alarms have been raised by KAGOTE, an organization representing the Khana, Gokana, Tai, and Eleme local government areas that constitute Ogoniland.

KAGOTE alleges that the dialogue process has been compromised by a select group of individuals, potentially with connections to the NSA's office. Chief Lesi Maol, President of KAGOTE, expressed deep concern over actions that threaten the credibility of the dialogue. He noted a growing apprehension among Ogoni communities that oil-related activities might have already commenced while official consultations are still in progress. The lack of clear information from the ODC leadership has exacerbated uncertainty.

Maol stated that his office has received numerous representations and expressions of concern from Ogoni communities, but the absence of authoritative information hinders clarification. He is calling for transparency regarding the status of oil activities in Ogoniland, especially while dialogue remains ongoing. There is a significant fear that this situation could reignite tensions, potentially mirroring the volatile events of 1994. Founded in 1947, KAGOTE, the apex socio-cultural organization of the Ogoni people, is demanding an investigation into these allegations.

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In my capacity as President of KAGOTE, I have received several representations and expressions of concern from Ogoni communities. Unfortunately, the absence of authoritative information has made it difficult to provide the necessary clarification.