PRESIDENTIAL PARDON FOR CHIEF ONANEFE IBORI.

AN OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU

His Excellency,
President Ahmed Bola Tinubu,
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Aso Rock Presidential Villa
Abuja, Nigeria

Dear Mr. President,

A NEED TO GIVE CHIEF JAMES ONANEFE IBORI FORMER GOVERNOR OF DELTA STATE PRESIDENTIAL PARDONE

I write sincerely to you today to respectfully advocate for the pardon of James Ibori a true born of Oghara kingdom, an Urhobo illustrious son and a citizen of our country Nigeria, he is a significant figure in our nation’s political landscape, whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s path to unity and development.

James Ibori played a crucial role in fostering stability in Nigeria, particularly during his tenure as Governor of Delta State. His efforts in curbing pipeline vandalism and mitigating ethnic conflicts in the Niger Delta region were pivotal in creating an environment conducive to peace and development. His leadership was characterized by a commitment to dialogue for reconciliation, which helped to hold Nigeria together during that turbulent times.

It is important to acknowledge Ibori’s journey through the justice system. His willingness to serve his prison term demonstrates a sense of accountability that is commendable. Since his release from the UK, he has exhibited genuine remorse for his past actions and has chosen a path of humility and reflection. His political silence post-release speaks volumes about his maturity and readiness to contribute positively to society without seeking the limelight.

During his governorship, Ibori implemented several developmental initiatives that significantly improved the lives of many in Delta State. His visionary leadership led to advancements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, laying a solid foundation for future growth. The impact of his policies continues to resonate with the people, who remember his contributions with gratitude.

Chief played a significant role in addressing the challenges of pipeline explosions, oil theft and calming ethnic wars.
His efforts can be analyzed from the below points

1. Community Engagement:- Ibori focused on involving local communities in governance and decision-making regarding oil resource management. This included creating a platform for dialogue where community leaders could voice concerns about pipeline vandalism and oil spills.
Example:- Ibori established the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) aimed at development projects in oil-producing regions. This commission indirectly addressed pipeline vandalism by improving local infrastructure and economic opportunities, thereby reducing local discontent and the temptation to engage in illegal oil activities.

2. Investment in Security:- Recognizing that instability in the Niger Delta affected oil production and wanted to prevent Nigeria from losing its natural resources, Ibori pushed for enhanced security measures.
Example:-Under his administration, there were efforts to collaborate with military and police forces to tackle militancy, pipeline vandalism and any ethnic war zone. The establishment of specialized units to patrol oil infrastructure and conflict area helped to minimize incidents of pipeline explosions and ethnic fights.

3. Economic Development Initiatives:- Ibori initiated various economic programs aimed at providing alternatives to local populations to engage in oil theft.
Example:-Ibori’s administration invested in agriculture and local businesses as part of a broader strategy to improve the livelihoods of residents. By fostering an environment where residents could thrive through legal means, the incentive to vandalize pipelines diminished.

4. Socio-Political dialogue:- Onanefe was involved in dialogue with militant groups, seeking peaceful resolutions to conflicts in the region.
Example:-His dialoguing with groups like the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is aimed to create peace and stability, which were critical for ensuring safe oil production and transportation.

5. Political Inclusiveness:- His administration sought to include representatives from various ethnic backgrounds in governance and decision-making processes. This inclusiveness helped to foster a sense of equity and representation, which was crucial in mitigating ethnic tensions.

6. Youth Engagement:- Understanding that many conflicts were driven by youth unrest, Ibori implemented programs to engage young people in productive activities. This included skills acquisition programs and job creation initiatives, which helped to channel their energy towards constructive purposes rather than conflict.

7. Advocacy Representation:- Additionally James, played a significant role in the discussions around the 13% oil derivation policy. This policy was designed to allocate a percentage of the revenue generated from oil production back to the states where the oil is extracted. The 13% derivation fund was intended to empower oil-producing states, allowing them to address the challenges and development needs in their regions, particularly in the Niger Delta.
Example:- The successfully Implementation of the 13% derivation from the Federal Government, he was an advocate for the rights of oil-producing states and worked to ensure that they received fair compensation for the environmental and social impacts of oil extraction. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen the financial positions of the Niger Delta State region.

With the above points, I write bodily to say there is a palpable cry from the public for his pardon. This reflects not only the desire for personal reconciliation for Ibori but also a broader yearning for unity and healing within the nation. Granting Ibori pardon would not only serve justice but would also be a powerful statement of forgiveness and a commitment to moving forward together as a nation.

Mr. President, your administration stands for inclusivity, healing, and a renewed commitment to national unity. By considering the pardon of James Ibori, you would be reinforcing these values and fostering an environment where past mistakes can be transformed into lessons for growth and development, granting Ibori your presidentail pardon aligns with your vision for a united Nigeria and it will serve as a catalyst for further dialogue and peace building.

I sincerely plead to you to reflect on this appeal. The act of granting Ibori a pardon could be seen as a step toward reconciliation, not just for one individual but for many who believe in the promise of a unified Nigeria.

The young, old, rich, poor, North and south, East and West, Citizenry of Nigeria, testify to his signature to good governance just like you my President. Ibori made men and women we miss his fatherly role and guide political. He is that Chief that pushes the food to the table for all to eat one who speak for all.

In conclusion Onanefe Ibori risk his life plying the creeks of the Niger Delta seeking a meeting with men with no mercies to dialogue for the peace of one Nigeria truly he was ready to lay his life down for one Nigeria a man who has stood his ground for all, this I belief outweigh all negative conception against. In view of the public interest Ibori needs your presidential pardon.

Long live His Excellency Ahmed Bola Tinubu
Long live Chief James Onanefe Ibori
Long live Delta State
Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria

Yours respectfully,
George Oghenekevwe
Advocates for Ibori
#Pardoneforibori
#IGI