Ogonis Seeks Answer to Alleged Diversion of $300m Intervention Funds for Oil Impacted Communities
Omiete Blessing
Ogoni ethnic group under the aegis of Greater Ogoni in Diaspora Organisation (GODO) has demanded for an explanation on alleged diversion of $300milliom released by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for the development of oil impacted communities in Ogoniland, Rivers State.
The group is seeking the explanation in a letter signed by Chief Ambrose Kii , dated Monday 6, 2024 and addressed to the former governor of River State, Nyesom Wike.
They also warned that if explanation is not made within 21 days, they would be forced to sue all those allegedly involved in the allocation of the said funds.
Kii recalled that Ogoni people have undergone sever sufferings due to environmental degradation, genocide, neglect, and marginalisation.
He said the release of funds by NNPCL was a welcome development, intended to address an aspect of the developmental needs of our community, stressing that the alleged diversion of the said funds has further exacerbated the suffering of people.
“We, the Greater Ogoni In Diaspora Organisation (GODO), write to express our deep concern and demand an explanation regarding the alleged diversion of $300million released by NNPC Ltd for development of oil-impacted communities in Ogoni during your tenure as Governor of Rivers State.
“We remain deeply scarred and are still grappling with the sacrifices made by our heroes and heroines, including Ken Saro-Wiwa and many other Ogonis, who fought tirelessly for environmental justice.
“The fact that another injustice has been perpetrated against us is a bitter pill to swallow. We can’t help but ask: how long will we continue to suffer at the hands of Nigerian governments? The memory of our heroes and heroines cannot be allowed to fade in vain. The alleged theft of funds meant to address the very issues they fought for is a betrayal of their legacy and a slap in the face of their sacrifices.
“The struggles of our heroes paved the way for the release of these funds. It is an insult to their memory and a slap in the face of the Ogoni people for these funds to be allegedly diverted. We will not stand idly by while the sacrifices of our people are disrespected in this manner”.
The group however, demands for “Confirmation of the receipt of the $300million by the Rivers State Government, a breakdown of how the funds were utilised, evidence of projects executed with the funds, and names of contractors and companies involved in the projects if any”.
They therefore stated that failure to provide a satisfactory explanation within the stipulated timeframe they approve the court for justice and accountability.
