The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has rejected the presidential pardon granted to Ken Saro-Wiwa and the other eight Ogoni activists murdered by General Sanni Abacha and his henchmen, instead, demanding full exoneration.
According to MOSOP, a pardon implies guilt, whereas exoneration would clear their names entirely.
While commending President Tinubu for his bold move, MOSOP insists on removing the “stains of injustice” from the ‘Ogoni 9’s’ legacy, acknowledging that the pardon has initiated the healing process.
MOSOP said, “His recognition of the injustices endured by Saro-Wiwa and his compatriots, and his words acknowledging the moral wounds of their execution, have been received with gratitude across the country and by many in the international community.
“In the case of Ken Saro-Wiwa and his compatriots, it is clear that no legitimate crime was committed. His Excellency, President Tinubu, himself acknowledged that their unjust execution should never have happened.”
“In this light, we humbly appeal that His Excellency goes further, by pursuing a formal exoneration of Ken Saro-Wiwa and his fellow activists. Such an exoneration would be a stronger moral and legal correction, ensuring that their names are no longer burdened by the stain of injustice.
“To this end, the establishment of a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate and formally repudiate the irregularities of the 1995 tribunal would be a landmark act of complete restorative justice. It will be one that would further cement President Tinubu’s legacy as a leader not only of courage, but of conscience.
“This administration has taken a bold step. History will surely honour it even more for completing the journey toward full justice”, the Group added.
The position is supported by other Ogoni leaders and activities, including Kote Odungwere and Tombari Kote that Ken Saro-Wiwa and others should be exonerated, not pardoned.
“Recall that the judgment of the Tribunal on the Ogoni 9 was rejected, faulted and globally condemned. So, there has not been justice and transparent trial of the Ogoni 9 that someone should consider them guilty of any crime”, they said.