In a significant development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently conferred national honours upon the late Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni leaders, acknowledging their sacrifices in the struggle for environmental justice and human rights. However, the Saro-Wiwa family has expressed reservations about this gesture, emphasizing the need for a formal exoneration rather than a pardon.
Family’s Stance: Exoneration, Not Pardon
The Ken Saro-Wiwa Foundation, led by Owens Wiwa, the late activist’s brother, issued a statement clarifying that neither the foundation nor the family had authorized any individual to seek a pardon for Ken Saro-Wiwa. The statement asserts that the Ogoni Nine were not criminals but innocent activists unjustly executed following a flawed trial. The family maintains that true justice can only be achieved through their exoneration, not a pardon .
Public Appeals for Justice
In line with the family’s position, Noo Saro-Wiwa, the daughter of the late activist, has publicly stated that her father and his colleagues must be exonerated, not pardoned, as they were innocent. This sentiment reflects the broader call from the Ogoni community and human rights organizations for a formal acknowledgment of the wrongful convictions .
Broader Community Response
The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), the apex decision-making body of the Ogoni people, has also rejected the planned pardon. MOSOP insists that the Ogoni leaders were innocent and should be exonerated, not merely pardoned .
Calls for National Recognition
While the family and community seek justice, other groups have called for further recognition of Ken Saro-Wiwa’s legacy. The Clean Environmental Foundation (CEF) has urged President Tinubu to grant a state pardon, declare Saro-Wiwa a national hero, and establish a national monument in his honour. Additionally, they advocate for compensation to be provided to his family .
Conclusion
The national honours bestowed upon Ken Saro-Wiwa and his colleagues mark a step towards acknowledging their contributions. However, the Saro-Wiwa family’s call for exoneration underscores the importance of rectifying historical injustices through formal legal processes. As discussions continue, the focus remains on achieving true justice and reconciliation for the Ogoni people and the broader Nigerian society.
By
