Ogoni Clean-Up: Amabu Commends FG, HYPREP, Zabbey As Programme Marks 10 Years

The United Ogoni Youths and Stakeholders Community and the Ogoni Comrades and Patriots Forum have commended the Federal Government, the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), its Project Coordinator, Professor Nenibarini Zabbey, and the people of Ogoniland as the Ogoni Clean-Up Programme marks its 10th anniversary.

The commendation was contained in a statement by Ledogo Amabu, Unity Facilitator and Ogoni Stakeholders Community Peace Mediator, Convener of the Ogoni Comrades and Patriots Forum and Chairman of the LOCECE Foundation.

Amabu described the clean-up as a historic response to decades of environmental degradation in Ogoniland, stressing that the programme was made possible by the persistent struggle of the Ogoni people and environmental justice advocates.

The Federal Government launched the programme in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, on June 2, 2016, following the recommendations of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

He acknowledged the progress recorded by HYPREP in areas including environmental remediation, mangrove restoration, potable water supply, healthcare, livelihood support and infrastructure development.

Amabu also commended Professor Zabbey for his leadership and efforts to deepen engagement with Ogoni communities and youths, while praising Environment Minister and HYPREP Governing Council Chairman, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, for seeking increased national and international support for the restoration programme.

He urged the Federal Government and HYPREP to sustain the momentum and ensure that the remaining aspects of the UNEP recommendations are fully implemented.

Amabu further called for stronger collaboration among HYPREP, Ogoni communities, youths, traditional institutions and civil society organisations to protect completed projects and ensure that ongoing interventions provide lasting benefits.

He congratulated the Federal Government, HYPREP, Professor Zabbey and the people of Ogoniland on the milestone, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to renew commitment to the successful completion of the restoration journey.

“Ten years achieved, 20 years of the UNEP restoration journey ahead. The Ogoni Clean-Up must succeed,” he said.