The peace in Ogoniland is currently hanging by a thread as local youth groups have vowed to take to the streets. The bone of contention? The alleged "deliberate neglect" and non-funding of the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Saakpenwa, Tai LGA.
At a press briefing held in the heart of Port Harcourt this past Sunday, the President of the Ogoni Youths Development Initiative (OYDI), Imeabe Saviour, didn’t mince words. He expressed deep frustration that while other institutions established by the Federal Government around the same time are already operational, FUET has been left in the lurch.
You’ll recall that President Bola Tinubu signed the bill establishing FUET on February 2, 2025. This move was seen as a major "olive branch" or confidence-building measure intended to repair relations with Ogoni leaders as talks regarding the resumption of oil exploration in the region progressed.
However, the reality on the ground is starkly different. According to OYDI, the NNPCL which was mandated to handle renovations and provide take-off funds has failed to pull through.
Why the Youths are Fuming:
Abandoned Projects: Contractors have reportedly downed tools because they haven't been paid.
Facilities Under Lock and Key: Due to unpaid debts, some facilities are being locked by contractors, preventing students and lecturers from accessing them.
Zero Infrastructure: There are currently no hostels or laboratories, and the institution is struggling to accommodate its maiden set of students.
The "Deceit" Factor: The OYDI believes the NNPCL is reneging on a presidential directive, viewing the delay as a betrayal of the agreement between the Ogoni people and the Federal Government.
"We are being forced to view this as deceit... We are non-violent, but we will not allow our inheritance and the fruit of the labours of our slain heroes to suffer neglect." — Imeabe Saviour, OYDI President.
The clock is ticking. The OYDI has given the NNPCL exactly seven days to release the necessary funds and pay contractors. If the ultimatum expires without action, the group has threatened to occupy NNPCL offices in both Port Harcourt and Abuja.
As of now, the NNPCL has not released an official statement regarding these claims.
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