NYCOP Calls For Unity, Peace Among Ogonis Amid Oil Resumption Dialogue

The National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) has called for unity, peace and dialogue among Ogonis as discussions over oil resumption and the future of Ogoniland continue to generate concerns among stakeholders.

The President of NYCOP, Comr. Barinuazor Emmanuel, made the call in a statement urging Ogoni elders, traditional rulers, political leaders, youths and other stakeholders to put aside personal differences and work together in the interest of the Ogoni people.

Emmanuel stressed that unity and non-violence had historically been central to the Ogoni struggle, warning that internal divisions could weaken the people's ability to negotiate effectively on issues affecting the future of Ogoniland.

According to him, “No divided house can negotiate,” noting that Ogonis must approach any dialogue table with a common purpose and a united position.

He appealed to elders and traditional rulers to act as fathers to all and promote unity, while urging political leaders to place the collective interests of Ogoni above personal considerations.

The NYCOP president also charged Ogoni youths not to allow themselves to be used to perpetrate violence or fight fellow Ogonis, but rather channel their energy towards building a peaceful and prosperous Ogoniland.

He further called on all Ogoni sons and daughters to de-escalate tensions and resolve disagreements through constructive dialogue rather than public confrontation.

Emmanuel consequently proposed an immediate Ogoni Family Meeting where elders, leaders, youths and other stakeholders could come together to discuss their differences and seek common ground.

He said the meeting would provide an opportunity for Ogonis to resolve their differences collectively and strengthen their position on issues concerning the future of the land.

“A united Ogoni is an unbeatable Ogoni,” he declared, while urging the people to embrace peace and dialogue.