President Tinubu Must Avert A Sahara Energy War on Ogoni

The unfortunate story of the Ogoni repression has too many instances of avoidable mistakes. The first was the failure of the Nigerian government to take advantage of Ken Saro-Wiwa. The most recent is an attempt to foist Sahara Energy on Ogoni ignoring an express rejection of the company by the communities.

This time, Nigeria could lose the benefits of tremendous efforts we have made in convincing the Ogoni people to accept the idea of resuming oil production in the area.  Nigeria should not turn deaf ears to our rejection of a Nicodemously concocted deal between Sahara Energy and the NNPC which we outrightly rejected following the collapse of our dialogue initiatives. Like the mistake with Saro-Wiwa, rather than opt for a genuine dialogue to reach a compromise with MOSOP,  there are ongoing buying of signatures from the streets in search of some Ogoni endorsement claims.

Unfortunately, the strategy of Sahara Energy and the NNPC isn't different from that of Shell and General Sani Abacha who had the impression that state repression and mass killing of Ogonis will force Shell back to resume oil production in the area.

Sadly, the Ogoni people are today faced with a possible extinction - a crushing economy without employment opportunities, a devastated environment and an increasingly less educated and non-competitive youth population. These are conditions that would have been reversed to set Ogoni on a path of sustainable development had the government acceded to our proposals for peace and development.

Nigeria has rather been more concerned with the prospects for natural resource extraction, seeking the quickest means possible ro that goal and definitely, less concerned about the welfare of the people. The consequences had been a predominantly angry and frustrated Ogoni population that became more resistant to their tactics.

Nigeria's mistakes in the handling of the Ogoni issue especially the resort to kill anyone who speaks the language of Ogoni liberation, a language that has become associated with Ken Saro-Wiwa, have only made things worse, not just for the oppressed Ogoni people but also for the Nigerian state.

In the past three decades, Nigeria has lost at least $452 Billion in oil revenues (excluding revenues from gas sales). The country has remained in a vicious circle, dissipating energy on people thought to have the keys to the Ogoni oil and not making any progress. The current strategy is a continuum of Shell's divide and conquer strategy which sought to use some people against the population in search for an avenue to break the people's will and desire for a better life.

Billions have been expended on public relations (which could be as crude as bribery) without any progress to persuade the Ogoni people to trust the oil industry Rather than accepting MOSOP's peace building initiatives, the oil industry seems to prefer to take advantage of the hunger their policies have inflicted on the people, promoting division with hopes of a conquest.

The implication had been a deadlock. But the reality is that the Ogoni people, though not averse to development and genuine initiatives to resolve the issues, are continually faced with the threats of a desperate and manipulative Nigerian oil industry whose modus operandi is a divide and conquer strategy that deceptively persuade some few individuals to do their bidding.

Driven by desperation, greed and selfishness,  successive attempts of the NNPC to reenter Ogoni have ignored MOSOP's development proposals and chosen paths that only frustrate MOSOP's genuine peace plans for a mutually beneficial compromise that can pave the way for a resolution of all legacy issues. The unholy alliance between Sahara Energy and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) is a glaring case in point.

The NNPC/Sahara deal reflects a sad side of how our country treats its own people. The entire contract is lacking in transparency. Why is a Financial and Technical Services Agreement, FTSA, between a dominant party, the NNPC, and a private entity, Sahara Energy, appearing to have roped the NNPC into an unbreakable marriage? What is so particular about Sahara Energy that, even with the people's rejection, the NNPC appears bent on getting them through, a path that obviously will not work with Ogoni.

Sahara Energy has been unable to win the support of the Ogoni masses and never will, yet, the NNPC appears very desperate to stick to this company. Why is it so difficult to discuss a way forward given that Sahara Energy is obviously not acceptable to the Ogoni people? It is indeed very awkward that the interest of Sahara Energy, in this instance, appears to outweigh or supersede that of the NNPC and the Nigerian state.

In 2020, I, as president of MOSOP, filed a petition against Sahara Energy and the NNPC, to president Muhammadu Buhari who ordered an investigation. The former Inspector General of Police investigated the matter and in Sahara's response, they claimed only to be financial partners and not the operator. I demanded they stay away if they are unwilling to enter into an SPV (Special Purpose Vehicle) that will accommodate the Ogoni interests. The case was rested.

Despite being fully aware of the position of the Ogoni People on the matter,  Sahara Energy has pushed on for an operatorship contract with the NNPC over OML 11 and wants to assume operatorship of the oilfields while actively evading the concerns and demands of the Ogoni people.

It should be very clear that Ogoni rejects Sahara Energy at this time and the resistance against Sahara will be massive at home and overseas. We cannot tolerate an existential threat as posed by Sahara Energy's backdoor moves to snatch away the sacrifices of some 4,000 Ogoni lives lost in the struggle to reclaim our heritage from Shell.

The Ogoni people have a legitimate right to peaceful living and Sahara Energy should not threaten that right.

Decisions that affect indigenous peoples must take the views of the people into consideration. This is a fundamental right in international law and we will expect our government to protect our rights to free, prior and informed consent in decisions that affect our lives.

The protection of our rights is a fundamental demand on our government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and we expect Mr President to halt the threat of another GENOCIDE in Ogoni posed by the unholy alliance between the NNPC and their smarthy Sahara Energy.



Fegalo Nsuke is president of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP). He wrote from Bori, Ogoni, Nigeria

The Abuse of Power: A Lesson from History And Need for Lasting Legacies

Throughout history, the abuse of power has led to devastating consequences, tarnishing the legacies of leaders and causing irreparable harm to individuals and societies. Leaders who abuse their power often forget that their position is transient and can swiftly shift, leading to accountability.

In ancient Greece, tyranny wasn't always viewed negatively. However, as time passed, the term gained a negative connotation, implying a ruler driven by personal gain and power. This concept has evolved over time, with philosophers like Aristotle defining tyranny as a sole ruler exercising power without accountability, often through force and coercion.

History is replete with examples of tyrannical leaders who suffered the inevitable consequences of their abuse of power. Joseph Stalin, Mao, Adolf Hitler, and Pol Pot are stark reminders of the dangers of unchecked power and the devastating impact on society. These leaders, driven by simplistic fantasies and grandiose visions, used charisma and rhetoric to manipulate and control their followers.

The consequences of abuse of power can be severe. Leaders who abuse their authority often face personal consequences, including imprisonment and loss of reputation. Nelson Mandela, for instance, became the first black president of South Africa after spending 27 years in prison, forgiving his captors and working towards national reconciliation. Similarly, Anwar Ibrahim took over as Malaysia's prime minister in 2020, two decades after being imprisoned on trumped-up charges by his former ally.

In Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo's story serves as a powerful reminder. He was convicted by a military dictator and imprisoned but later became president, taking over from the same military junta that had wronged him.

The psychological impact of political abuse is similar to interpersonal abuse, generating complicated relationships between the abuser and victim. Trauma studies demonstrate that even brief exposure to abuse profoundly alters social perceptions and relationships. 

To prevent the recurrence of political victimization, it's crucial to recognize the signs of abuse and resist manipulation. We must employ strategies to maintain complex world views, stay true to our core moral values, and seek multiple sources of information.

Ultimately, the abuse of power is a corrosive force that undermines democracy, destroys lives, and ultimately leads to downfall. As we reflect on history's lessons, let us remember that power is a trust held on behalf of the people, not a personal fiefdom. Leaders must prioritize the greater good, uphold justice, and respect the rights of all individuals.

Therefore, to T leave enduring legacies rather than ugly memories of abuse of power, leaders in a democracy should prioritize serving the people and promoting the greater good. This can be achieved by fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity.

Embracing Transparency and Accountability

Leaders should be willing to be held accountable for their actions and decisions. This involves being transparent in their decision-making processes, ensuring that information is accessible to the public, and being responsive to citizens' concerns rather than noting down critics as enemies. 

Promoting Inclusivity and Social Justice

Effective leaders recognize the importance of promoting social justice and addressing the needs of the marginalized communities in the society. They should strive to create opportunities for civic engagement, protect individual rights, and address systemic inequalities.

Empowering Future Generations

Investing in education, healthcare, and social welfare programs can have a lasting impact on future generations. Leaders should prioritize initiatives that promote the well-being and development of children and youth rather than pursuit of mondane satisfactions.

Leading by Example

Leaders should demonstrate integrity, ethics, and compassion in their personal and professional lives. By doing so, they set a positive tone for their administration and inspire citizens to do the same. Many who ended up as tyrants started out as saviours and appeared messiac. Examples of such leaders include, Adolf Hitler of Germany, who was initially seen as a saviour from economic crisis and political instability as Hitler's charismatic leadership and promises of national revival captivated Germany. However, he eventually became one of history's most infamous tyrants.

In the same mould was Joseph Stalin of Soviet Union who rose to power as a champion of the working class and a strong leader who could guide the Soviet Union through turmoil. His regime ultimately became notorious for brutal repression, famine, and purges. 

In Africa, we had the likes of Idi Amin of Uganda who initially gained popularity by overthrowing an unpopular government. However, his regime became infamous for brutality, ethnic cleansing, and economic mismanagement. 

Also, Pol Pot of Cambodia promised to create a self-sufficient agrarian society his rule resulted in the deaths of an estimated 1.7 to 2.2 million people, approximately 25% of Cambodia's population. 

In Venezuela, history has it that Hugo Chavez's initial popularity stemmed from his promises to address poverty and inequality. However, his rule became increasingly authoritarian, characterized by media censorship, suppression of opposition, and economic mismanagement. 

Mobutu Sese Seko of the then Zaire and now DRC presented himself as a national hero, overthrowing a corrupt government. His rule became marked by kleptocracy, human rights abuses, and economic decline.

On his part, Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe, through his liberation movement fought against white minority rule. However, his presidency became characterized by authoritarianism, land seizures, and economic collapse. 

As for Nicolae Ceaușescu of Romania, he initially gained popularity for his independent stance against Soviet influence. His rule descended into cult-like personality worship, repression, and economic stagnation.

These are examples that illustrate how leaders who initially appear as saviours or messiahs gradually became tyrannical, often due to unchecked power, ideological extremism, or personal ambition. The need for leaders to lead by example if they want to leave behind lasting legacies cannot be over emphasized. 

Fostering Collaborative Governance

Building healthy partnerships with civil society organizations, community groups, and other stakeholders can help leaders develop effective solutions to complex problems. This collaborative approach promotes a sense of ownership and responsibility among citizens.

Honouring the Principles of Democracy

Ultimately, leaders should uphold the basic principles of democracy, respecting the rule of law, protecting individual freedoms, and ensuring that power is distributed equitably. By doing so, they leave a lasting legacy that benefits the country and its people.

Jane Addams, a pioneering social worker and peace activist, exemplified most of the above principles through her work at Hull House, a settlement house in Chicago. Her commitment to social justice, education, and community empowerment continues to inspire leaders today. As a leader, how will history remember you? The choice is ours to make while we are still in office before the power we so much cherish shifts. 

*Comrade James Ezema is a journalist, a political strategist, and public affairs analyst. He writes from Abuja

Ogoni Oil and the Sahara Energy's Playbook

Sahara Energy has had a good chance of being accepted as an operator for the Ogoni oil fields. In 2019, when the news first broke out about Sahara's interest and maneuvers to assume the operatorship of the oilfields, IMOSOP made frantic efforts to contact Sahara for a dialogue and was turned down.

 

The mindset suggested that the government had backed the deal between Sahara and the NNPC and any opposition against the deal would likely be crushed with the force of state.

 

MOSOP's eventual rejection of Sahara and their backdoor moves to usurp the benefits of the collective struggles of the Ogoni people were resounding and unequivocal. While we thought the matter had been laid to rest, we were shocked to learn of Sahara's antics to force its way into Ogoni despite the people's opposition.

 

A second opportunity came for Sahara following the development plan approved by MOSOP in September 2020, Sahara, again, had a chance and was offered another opportunity to come to the table for a discussion. As with previous initiatives, the offers fell on deaf ears. 

 

The attitude of Sahara and their disdain for dialogue over the issue compelled the orientation that Sahara may just be another Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, popularly called Shell, may be even worse. A company that thrives on backdoor moves to discuss issues that affect people's lives without any consideration nor respect for the concerns of the people, we reasoned, may just be another road to a worse genocide than we saw with Shell.

 

The Federal House of Representatives captured the fears of the Ogoni people and noted the unpredictability of Sahara Energy in a lawmaker's remark on one of Sahara's playbook:

"The government is involved in an under the ta­ble covert arrangements to auction OML 11 assets to the Sahara Energy Resource Limited for a paltry sum of $250 million as against the $1 billion offered by SPDC Limited"

 

To avert, and eliminate the risk of a Sahara Energy sponsored repression and genocide, the Central Committee of MOSOP met and resolved not to back any deal that hands down the operatorship of OML 11, which covers the Ogoni fields, to Sahara Energy.

 

MOSOP wouldn't mind if the Ogoni region is carved out of the block but we are not receptive to an unpredictable company like Sahara Energy whose attitude towards dialogue is damp and evasive.

 

The Ogoni experience had been extremely harsh and any company which displays any traits of Shell, being very evasive and relying on the powers of state rather than dialogue with the people is, in fact, certainly not likely to enjoy the reception of the Ogoni people.

 

Background of the Problem

 

Sahara Energy and several other companies are today seeking to take over the operatorship of OML 11, which encompasses the Ogoni region,  31 years after Shell's exit from the Ogoni oilfields.

 

The Ogoni region with over 200 oil wells remains the cash cow in OML 11 and untilI we find any contrary statistical data, the Ogoni oilfields are, to the best of my knowledge, the most prolific and profitable fields in Nigeria with a proven production capacity of 500,000 barrels per day. I have personally held that given the permeability of the Ogoni soil, the fields can do well over 1,000,000 barrels daily. Again I await an expert to prove otherwise.

 

Back to our main issue, the Ogoni fields had been operated by Nigeria's biggest oil producer, the Shell Petroleum Development Company (Shell) until 1993 when persistent civil unrest forced Shell to exit the area.

 

In an attempt to shut out the Ogoni protests, Shell, backed by Nigerian security forces clamped down on Ogoni civil rights campaigners and killed some 4,000 Ogonis in cold blood. The Ogoni people, however, sustained the struggle to this day.

 

That is the only reason why oil in Ogoni is today available for grabs. I hold that the Ogoni sacrifices are immeasurable and worth rewarding. No oil company should therefore contemplate neglecting  or shortchanging the interests of the Ogoni people with any political advantage they could have. 

 

An equally incontrovertible fact is that MOSOP led the Ogoni people in the struggle against Shell and won with Shell's exit from the area. Though that victory remains incomplete, as we are yet to see the real benefits come to the people, it remains a remarkable fit. So, what the oil industry is today, clamouring for was not available and wouldn't have been but for the sacrifices and resilience of the Ogoni people led by MOSOP.

 

The position of MOSOP is therefore fundamental in the resolution of the crises. 

 

First, MOSOP is trusted and for every action to be taken regarding the Ogoni oil, the Ogoni public wants the opinion of MOSOP.

 

Secondly, MOSOP has an express mandate, derived from the Ogoni Bill of Rights, OBR, to speak on the issues of Ogoni deprivations and so the voice of MOSOP is the resounding voice of the Ogoni people.

 

In this regard,  MOSOP has consistently maintained its readiness to support initiatives that are peaceful and beneficial for the Ogoni people and the Nigerian state, What MOSOP strongly detests is an attempt to resort to the use of repressive tactics similar to or worse than that of the 1990s.

 

Prospects for a Peaceful Resolution

 

In a show of its commitment to peace and development for Ogoni and our country,  MOSOP has published its development proposals. In simple terms, MOSOP's proposal called for a fair proportion of profits derived from natural resource extraction in Ogoni to be dedicated to Ogoni development. That should not  be too much to ask for a people who sacrificed 4,000 lives to take the oil from Shell. And that sacrifice could not have been made just for some oil company. The people have now become critical stakeholders. 

 

The MOSOP's proposal further spells out the terms of implementation to ensure transparency, accountability and goal attainment.

 

The unholy alliance between Sahara Energy and the NNPC to use backdoor political manoeuvres to force their way into Ogoni is therefore a threat to the peace of Ogoni. One thing MOSOP is strongly committed to is not to allow the peace of Ogoni to be taken away for pecuniary interests.

 

The Sahara Energy's Playbook to snatch away the rights of the Ogoni people to decent living and throw Ogoni back into crises is something we must all be determined to resist and defeat. Period.

 

 

Fegalo Nsuke is President of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People, MOSOP. He wrote from Port Harcourt, Nigeria.