The Ogoni Youth Federation has expressed mixed feelings over the release of NGN 2.5 Billion for payment of compensation to property owners along the east west road. Releasing part payment for compensation is not only diversionary but a grand attempt by Senator Godswill Akpabio to hoodwink and deceive the protesting youths to withdraw from the road.
The aim of the 5-days old mother of all protest remains on the forefront, which is the demand for the re-construction of the entire stretch of the deplorable Ogoni axis of the east west road (Eleme junction to Onne). We expect the Federal Government to display good faith and mobilize contractors handing the road project to site to implement our demand and stop playing to the gallery.
It should be sounded clear that the gimmick of the Minister for Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio aimed at tricking the protesting youths will not work as we are determined to remain on the road till the Federal Government mobilize contractors to site.
May we seize this opportunity to appreciate and thank the Eleme Youth Council ably led by Comrade Prince Okereke, Ijaw Youth Council, Eastern Zone, Obolo Youth Coalition, Ogoni People Assembly and other stakeholders and groups too numerous to mention for their solidarity and support. God is on our side, history is on our side.
Comrade Legborsi Yamaabana
President-General,
Ogoni Youth Federation
Friday July 30th, 2021
