The committee said the consultations were necessary to ensure that any agreement reached with the government represents the collective interests of the Ogoni people and receives widespread acceptance from the communities.
The decision followed a meeting where members discussed the ongoing negotiations and the steps required to establish trust among stakeholders ahead of the proposed return to oil production.
A member of the committee and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Ndowa Lale, described the dialogue process as challenging but expressed optimism that continued consultations, patience and cooperation would produce a positive outcome.
Similarly, Monsignor Dr Pius Kii, a member of the committee and senior lecturer at Rivers State University, disclosed that the group had agreed to support the Federal Government’s efforts to restore oil exploration in Ogoniland for the benefit of the country and its people.
He explained that members had also resolved to complete the harmonisation of the proposed MoU in accordance with agreements reached during previous meetings.
Kii added that the chairmen of the four Ogoni local government councils, who were assigned to engage residents and prepare them for the proposed congresses, had reported considerable progress in their respective communities.
However, the proposed return to oil production has continued to generate differing opinions among Ogoni stakeholders.
The Green Ogoni Initiative has rejected the plan, arguing that the current negotiations do not adequately protect the rights and interests of the people, particularly regarding environmental restoration and community consent.
The apex socio-cultural organisation of the Ogoni people, KAGOTE, has also called for greater transparency in the discussions, raising concerns about community representation, employment opportunities, contract allocation and reported oil-related activities while negotiations remain ongoing.
The Ogoni Peoples’ Assembly has similarly called for the publication of the proposed MoU to allow residents to examine its provisions before any agreement is finalised.
The organisation maintained that important issues concerning commercial arrangements, environmental protection and ownership must be clearly explained to the communities.
The committee’s position highlights the importance of wider consultations and community participation in resolving the longstanding disagreements surrounding oil exploration in Ogoniland.
The proposed resumption remains a sensitive issue, with stakeholders insisting that any lasting agreement must address the concerns of residents and establish confidence in the process.
