Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt —
The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, HYPREP, has called on traditional rulers in Ogoniland to champion peacebuilding efforts as a vital component for the successful implementation of the United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, Report in the area.
During a workshop on “Mechanism For Alternative Dispute Resolution And Peacebuilding Techniques For Ogoni Traditional Rulers And Other Key Stakeholders,” HYPREP Project Coordinator Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, emphasised the critical role of community leaders in fostering unity and dialogue among stakeholders.
Zabbey explained that the success of HYPREP initiatives hinges on the peace and collaboration cultivated within Ogoni communities, and highlighted ongoing projects aimed at addressing environmental degradation and restoring livelihoods in Ogoniland.
He noted that over 7,000 Ogoni youths and women were currently engaged in HYPREP activities, contributing to shoreline remediation and health initiatives, noting that significant progress has been made in providing clean water access and constructing the Centre of Excellence for Environmental Restoration.
“I call on you to build bridges of understanding to address challenges within your jurisdiction. Your leadership and integrity in these areas will ensure that Ogoniland remains where progress and development can thrive. When we come together with a shared vision and common goals, there is no limit to what we can achieve as a people.
“I implore you to embrace your role as Peace Ambassadors. Your duty as traditional rulers and stakeholders is to champion the cause of environmental remediation and actively promote peace, reconciliation, and dialogue. These efforts will enhance HYPREP’s ability to implement projects effectively and ensure that the dividends of these projects reach every corner of Ogoniland,” he stated.
According to Zabbey, several challenges have been hindering HYPREP’s progress, including factionalization of community-based groups, sustained pressure for recognition, community leadership tussles, restricted access to sites due to disputes, and malicious spreading of misinformation through various media platforms.
He said: “The Ogoni people have a rich history of advocacy, and today, HYPREP stands as a testament to your resilience. Our shared responsibility is to ensure that these efforts are not in vain. For this to happen, peace must be a priority. You can mediate conflicts, unite divided factions, build bridges for progress, and encourage dialogue among all parties in the public interest.”
The workshop, which was facilitated by the Centre for Peace and Security Studies, University of Port Harcourt aimes to promote peacebuilding and sustainability in Ogoniland, as HYPREP can only succeed with the help cooperation of Ogoni traditional rulers.
According to the Director of the Centre, Prof Martin Ifeanacho, the workshop aimed to utilize Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms to resolve conflicts and promote lasting peace in Ogoniland for sustainable development.
“We recognise that any project, no matter how well-intentioned, will fail to achieve its objectives if there is no peace and security. That’s why we’re emphasizing the importance of ADR, which focuses on mediation and negotiation to achieve a win-win situation,” he said.
Ifeanacho explained that conventional court systems often declare winners and losers, leading to unresolved conflicts and resentment, whereas alternative dispute resolution promotes mutual understanding and cooperation.
He added: “The peace obtained through ADR is lasting because it addresses the underlying issues and involves all parties in finding a solution. The partnership is part of the Centre’s mandate from the National Universities Commission to provide intellectual solutions to local problems. By working with HYPREP, the Centre aims to extend its expertise to Ogoniland and contribute to the region’s development.
“This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to using our academic expertise to address real-world challenges. We’re proud to support HYPREP’s efforts to restore Ogoniland and promote economic growth.”
