Tinubu Grants State Pardon to Ogoni Nine in Historic Move

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially granted a state pardon to the Ogoni Nine—activists including Ken Saro-Wiwa who were executed under Gen. Sani Abacha’s regime in 1995. The pardon coincided with the 30th anniversary of their hanging on November 10, marking a major step in reconciling past injustices against the Ogoni people. In a companion move, he posthumously honored Saro-Wiwa with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), while the other eight martyrs received the Order of the Niger (OON).

Tinubu’s announcement came after persistent calls from rights groups like the Clean Environmental Foundation, MOSOP, and others who urged the federal government to officially declare the Ogoni Nine innocent, restore their reputations, erect monuments in their memory, and compensate their families. Earlier this year, these organisations emphasized that genuine reconciliation with Niger Delta communities hinges on state recognition and restitution.

Since taking office, Tinubu has repeatedly pledged to address historical grievances in Ogoniland, promising dialogue, environmental healing, and infrastructure development. His formal pardon reinforces this commitment, signalling willingness to confront legacies of injustice. The Ogoni Nine's sacrifice has long symbolized resistance to environmental degradation in the Niger Delta, and their pardon is seen as a watershed in Nigeria’s journey toward justice and unity.

While MOSOP previously resisted token pardon, insisting on full exoneration, this state action potentially paves the way for deeper progress. The pardon, combined with national honors, may foster reconciliation and trust, though real healing will require continued action—remediation of Ogoniland, compensation, and inclusive development. For now, Tinubu’s move represents an important acknowledgment of past wrongs and a renewed promise of progress.

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