President Tinubu Honors Saro-Wiwa and 8 Activists Executed by Abacha in 1995

In a historic tribute, President Tinubu honors Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other activists who were executed in 1995 under Abacha’s regime, recognizing their legacy in Nigeria’s fight for justice. 

President Bola Tinubu has honored Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other activists posthumously. These individuals were executed in 1995 under the regime of General Sani Abacha.

Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, announced this recognition in a statement released Monday night.

Saro-Wiwa, a leading writer and environmental activist, along with his fellow countrymen, passionately championed the rights of the Ogoni people in Nigeria’s Niger Delta.

Their execution triggered international condemnation and emphasized the regional communities’ struggles against environmental degradation.

In a special message for the 2024 Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, President Tinubu expressed solidarity with the National Youth Council of Ogoni People (NYCOP) and all Ogoni citizens to honor those who sacrificed their lives in defense of the interests of the Ogoni nation,” part of the statement read.

The statement reiterated the Tinubu administration’s dedication to promoting dialogue, reconciliation, and healing among all ethnic groups within the nation.

The President stated that the theme for this year’s Ogoni Martyrs Remembrance Day, “After Price, Comes Prise,” embodies our shared dedication to recognizing past hardships and lessons while striving for a more promising future.

“Their memory is honored by acknowledging the sacrifices made and committing to work towards a future defined by peace, justice, and sustainable development for all communities, especially those in the Niger Delta,” the statement concluded.

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The President also confirmed his administration’s dedication to actively addressing historical injustices and striving to build a united and prosperous nation for future generations.

“The President stated that this vision would be achieved through constructive engagement and mutual respect, noting the long history of crude oil exploration in Ogoniland.”

He observed that the efforts of Ogoni leaders to safeguard their environment from damaging oil exploration faced intense oppression, ultimately leading to the tragic execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other leaders in 1995.

“As we commemorate the Ogoni Martyrs, let’s honor their legacy by dedicating ourselves to a future where such injustices are eradicated and all Nigerians’ voices are acknowledged and respected,” Tinubu stated.

Saro-Wiwa, a social activist and leader of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), was executed on November 10, 1995.

Alongside Saro-Wiwa, the others who were executed included Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine.

A military tribunal established by General Abacha sentenced the men to death, and they were executed by hanging.