Ogoni Groups Urge President Tinubu to Reverse HYPREP Board Appointment

Several Ogoni groups in Rivers State are calling on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the recent appointment of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) Board of Trustees, led by Chairman Emmanuel Deeyah.

The groups claim that Deeyah’s appointment was a result of “petty political interference” and does not reflect the President’s intention to reappoint Dr. Mike Nwielaghi, who previously chaired the Board.

According to the groups, Nwielaghi’s leadership was satisfactory, and his reappointment would have ensured continuity and sustained momentum in the cleanup efforts.

They expressed disappointment that instead of building on Nwielaghi’s success, efforts are being made to undermine the progress.

The Ogoni groups argue that Deeyah’s appointment should be considered a new appointment rather than a reappointment, as he has never served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees.

They believe that reversing the announcement and restoring Nwielaghi’s reappointment would strengthen the President’s political support in the region ahead of the 2027 elections.

The HYPREP program aims to remediate oil-polluted areas in Ogoniland, addressing decades of environmental degradation.

The program’s effectiveness has been a subject of discussion, with some groups questioning its impact and transparency .

The Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People (MOSOP) has previously called for reforms in HYPREP, citing corruption and inefficiency.

MOSOP President Fegalo Nsuke emphasized the need for transparency and financial responsibility in HYPREP’s operations.

In contrast, some groups have expressed support for President Tinubu’s efforts to revitalize HYPREP. Chief Mike Nwielaghi, the former Chairman of the HYPREP Board of Trustees, praised the President’s commitment to the development and cleanup of Ogoniland.