by Comfort Chukwukelue
The chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, Senator Mpigi Barinada, has expressed his satisfaction and optimism following the signing of the bill establishing the Federal University of Environmental Technology, Ogoni, by President Bola Tinubu. In a statement, the senator emphasized that the late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, who advocated for the upliftment of Ogoniland and its people, would be “smiling in his grave” with the historic move.
Senator Mpigi, who represents Rivers South-East Senatorial District, applauded the president’s gesture, noting that the university would serve as a beacon of hope for the oppressed people of Ogoniland and the Niger Delta region. “What the late Ken Saro-Wiwa stood for was the upliftment of Ogoniland and its people, and with what President Tinubu has done today, even our past heroes would be smiling in their graves,” he said.
The senator, who also serves as the vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Oil and Gas Host Communities, highlighted that the bill was not a personal achievement but the result of collective efforts. He acknowledged the resilience of the Ogoni people and the unwavering support of local leaders.
“This achievement embodies the voices of our communities, the resilience of our people, and the unwavering support of our leaders. The labors and sacrifices of our heroes past now rest on our shoulders, and it is our duty to sustain this beacon of hope for future generations,” Senator Mpigi said.
He called on the people of Ogoni to remain peaceful yet vigilant, urging unity and patience as ongoing dialogues seek lasting solutions to the region’s challenges. “The journey towards justice and development is ongoing, and our collective resolve will determine our victory,” he added.
The senator also expressed gratitude to the leadership of the 10th National Assembly, including Senate President Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Albas, for their support in ensuring the swift passage of the bill. He further acknowledged the contributions of former Rivers State Governor, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, for his guidance in achieving this milestone.
Senator Mpigi stressed that the establishment of the university would provide a platform for the youth of Ogoniland to acquire knowledge, develop skills, and foster innovation. He affirmed that the university would address core aspects of the Ogoni question and play a vital role in the region’s long-term development.
The senator also recalled the challenges faced during the previous administration, when the bill was initially declined assent by former President Muhammadu Buhari. However, he expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for his decisive action in ensuring the bill was signed into law.
“When this bill was presented to the President, he signed it in the presence of the leadership of the Ogoni Caucus of the National Assembly. I must thank President Tinubu for listening to the aspirations of the Ogoni people and for showing that he is a president for all Nigerians,” Senator Mpigi stated.
With the successful passage and signing of the bill, Senator Mpigi reassured his constituents that he would continue to work diligently to ensure the success of the university and its maximum benefits to the people of Ogoniland and the nation.
