A sharp conflict between Sahara Reporters publisher Omoyele Sowore and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has escalated with Sowore accusing Wike of embezzling over $300 million intended for Ogoniland’s environmental remediation and infrastructural development.
Sowore disclosed in a Facebook post that the funds, originally set aside for Ogoniland, were misappropriated by the former Rivers State governor and funneled into building a chain of supermarkets known as “HyperCity Supermarkets” in Port Harcourt. This allegation was highlighted in a document presented by an Ogoni delegation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa.
Key Allegations and Reactions
- Omoyele Sowore claims Wike diverted $300 million earmarked for Ogoniland’s cleanup and development into commercial supermarket projects.
- The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) accuses some individuals within Ogoni and Rivers State of looting funds meant for compensation and infrastructure.
- The $300 million was part of a settlement with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) to resolve ongoing oil-related conflicts in the region.
MOSOP’s Demand for Accountability
MOSOP President Fegalo Nsuke expressed deep frustration, emphasizing that the stolen funds could have significantly improved water supply, power, infrastructure, and education for thousands of Ogoni residents. He called for an urgent investigation and the recovery of the missing money to address critical local development needs.
Nsuke warned that government silence on the issue signals a lack of commitment to solving Ogoni problems, urging President Tinubu’s administration to act decisively.
Lawmaker’s Call for Justice
Boma Goodhead, a federal lawmaker for Akuku-Toru and Asari-Toru, publicly accused Wike of diverting the Ogoni funds and demanded his immediate arrest and prosecution for the alleged crime.
