Niger Delta activist Rita Lori-Ogbebor has raised a significant concern about the federal government’s strategy in the region. She asserts that the government has weaponised the Ijaw ethnic group to seize control of oil wealth, leading to heightened tensions and instability. Her allegations point to a systematic approach to manipulating local dynamics for economic gain, which she believes threatens not just the Niger Delta, but the entire country.
Rita Lori-Ogbebor is a prominent voice in the Niger Delta, advocating for the rights and wellbeing of the people in the oil-rich region. She has long been critical of the federal government's policies, which she argues disproportionately benefit from the region's resources while leaving the local communities in dire straits. Her latest statement highlights the use of the Ijaws as pawns in a broader scheme to maintain control over lucrative oil revenues.
“The federal government has weaponised the Ijaws to seize control for oil money,” Lori-Ogbebor stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation. This tactic, she explains, is not merely a localised tribal issue but a deliberate move that could spark widespread conflict. By exploiting ethnic divisions, the government risks igniting a crisis that could have far-reaching consequences for national stability.
“The only solution for now is to write to the police, Army Defence Headquarters, and the National Security Adviser to inform them of the imminent danger in the Niger Delta. This is not a tribal problem; it is a way to start a crisis that will turn the whole country upside down,” Lori-Ogbebor warned. She emphasised the urgency of proactive measures to prevent further violence and protect the region's future. The loss of young lives in previous conflicts has already left deep scars, and continued provocation could push the youth to retaliate violently.
Lori-Ogbebor also proposed a long-term solution to address the underlying issues. “The long-term solution is to change the constitution and give everybody the right to live, whether majority or minority. We must have the right to everything necessary for all to live and raise our children,” she urged. Constitutional reforms, according to her, are essential to ensure equitable rights and opportunities for all Nigerians, thereby fostering a more inclusive and peaceful society.
In summary, Rita Lori-Ogbebor's concerns about the federal government's actions in the Niger Delta call for immediate and decisive responses to avert a potential crisis. Her advocacy for constitutional changes reflects a broader vision for sustainable peace and development in Nigeria.
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