Youth groups in Ogoniland, Rivers State, have threatened to stage protests over plans to resume oil exploration in the area, while renewing their demand for the creation of Bori State.
The youths expressed opposition to the planned return of oil production in Ogoni, insisting that concerns over environmental pollution and the welfare of affected communities must be addressed before any resumption takes place.
They said the people of Ogoni should not be excluded from decisions concerning the exploitation of natural resources in their communities.
The groups also called for the creation of Bori State, arguing that a separate state would provide greater political representation and improve access to government and development opportunities for the people of the area.
The youths warned that failure to address their concerns could lead to demonstrations across Ogoniland. They urged the Federal Government and other relevant authorities to engage with community representatives to prevent a renewed crisis.
Their position comes amid renewed discussions over the future of oil operations in Ogoni, decades after production in the area was halted following years of environmental concerns and community opposition.
The youths maintained that any attempt to restart oil activities without adequately addressing outstanding environmental, economic and political concerns would face resistance from the people.
