Barako monarch demands Ogoni rights implementation and community development

DDM News

Barako monarch demands Ogoni rights implementation and community development

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the traditional ruler of Barako Ancient Community in Rivers State, Kadilo Kabari, has demanded the full implementation of the Ogoni Bill of Rights.

The monarch made this call during the Uula-Mii Giaa/Lol-Giaa Tor Festival, which marks the beginning of a new planting season in Ogoniland.

In a statement signed and released on Sunday, the monarch emphasized the need for justice and development in Ogoni communities.

He urged the government to take concrete steps toward addressing the grievances of the Ogoni people without further delay.

The monarch stressed the importance of clearing the names of the Ogoni Four and ensuring the exoneration of the Ogoni Nine.

He insisted on proper burial rites, compensation, and reconciliation among families who lost loved ones during the Ogoni struggle.

The monarch stated that the sacrifices of those who died for the Ogoni cause must not be ignored or forgotten.

“With all the blood spilled on Ogoni soil, there are spiritual cries for justice,” he declared.

He urged authorities to recognize and compensate affected communities, including victims like Keesiop Gboro Aakol, a son of Barako.

Call for oil exploration and economic development

The monarch called for the resumption of oil exploration and production at Yormene Well 13 in Bomu oil fields.

He urged oil companies and stakeholders to work with host communities for responsible and sustainable resource development.

The monarch also offered community land for a large-scale gas-powered energy infrastructure or turbine in Barako.

He emphasized the vast gas reserves in Barako and the potential for economic growth through energy investments.

“These, along with revamping the health centre and reinstating SPDC scholarships, will address our community’s urgent needs,” the monarch stated.

Cultural and spiritual significance of Barako

The festival witnessed a sudden downpour of rain, which the monarch described as a spiritual confirmation of their declarations.

He noted that this phenomenon occurs annually, reinforcing the belief that their ancestors approve of their demands.

The monarch highlighted Barako’s cultural heritage as the custodian of Gbooro Stream, known as the ‘Stream of the Rising Sun’.

He also mentioned that Barako holds the Bina drums, traditionally used to confirm warriors and kings in Ogoni culture.

“The Barako Ancient Community plays a vital role in preserving the heritage and history of the Ogoni people,” he added.

Rivers State and the Ogoni struggle

Rivers State is part of the oil-rich Niger Delta, where environmental degradation has fueled activism and resource control debates.

The Ogoni people have long demanded political, economic, and environmental justice due to the impact of oil exploration.

In 1990, they presented the Ogoni Bill of Rights, seeking self-determination and an end to environmental pollution.

The execution of the Ogoni Nine, including Ken Saro-Wiwa, in 1995 remains a tragic chapter in Nigeria’s history.

Efforts to clean up Ogoniland through HYPREP have faced criticism for slow implementation and lack of accountability.

The monarch of Barako is reinforcing these demands, calling for justice, development, and cultural preservation in Ogoniland.

He urged the government to act swiftly in fulfilling its promises to the Ogoni people.

“Our land has suffered for too long. It is time for restoration, reconciliation, and development,” the monarch declared.

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