The Lagos State chapter of the Ogoni Welfare Association (OWA) has said it would back any distinguished and patriotic Ogoni indigene for the Rivers State governorship race in 2023.
In a statement issued in Lagos by the Chairman of the group, ThankGod Meekor, and Chairman, Public Relations Committee, Nkpemenyie Mcdominic, the group said it had assessed politics in Rivers State over the years, and identified contributions and supreme sacrifices paid by Ogoni people towards the liberation of the state.
It also hinged its quest on the effort of the Ogoni on the emancipation of the Niger Delta region, sustenance of democracy in Nigeria and resolved that it was only equitable, fair and just for an Ogoni person to be given an opportunity to ensure the realisation of Rivers dream.
OWA called on other ethnic groups in Rivers State including the Ikwerre, Kalabari, Okirika, Ekpeye, Ndoni and Opobo, among others, to support the Ogonis in 2023.
The body noted that in the past, Ogoni had thrown their weight fully behind the leadership of Rivers State presented by any of her neighbours and expressed the belief that it was logical for her neighbours to reciprocate such gestures by supporting any qualified and distinguished Ogoni son, who presents himself to serve the Rivers people.
“Although we commend Governor Nyesom Wike for his performance in Rivers State, we observe that it was ripe for Rivers people to repackage the state.
“This should be done through fresh and vibrant ideas from Rivers South Senatorial District, the only senatorial zone that has not been challenged with the governorship position in the state,” the statement reads.
