The apex platform of the Ogoni people, MOSOP, has condemned in strong terms the reported assassination attempt on the life of the publisher of the Port Harcourt based tabloid, National Network, Pastor Jerry Needam and his family.
Pastor Needam has in the past suffered similar deadly attempts on his life. MOSOP therefore call on the security agencies to leave no stone unturned in apprehending and bringing the perpetrators to justice and as well provide adequate security for him and his family in view of their vulnerability.
Coming on the heels of threats to the life of another Ogoni son, the Resident Electoral commissioner (REC) of Bayelsa state, Mr. Lenu Baritor Kpaghi, are concerned that this bestial approach, which is following a worrisome pattern, betrays a callously punitive intent.
MASOP alarmed that in a state where Ogoni is deliberately abused and ganged-up against to further the destructive agenda of condemning Ogoni to perpetual obscurity reflecting in its non-consideration for anything good, brutal attempts are implemented to deny them the right to life.
MOSOP warned all those involved in the madness or contemplating attacking or threatening our people to stop forthwith as Ogoni is fed-up and will not fold her arms while its citizens are being attacked and wasted.
“We are sure that no matter what the masterminds and executioners may claim, no one has the right to attempt or violate their inalienable right to life safeguarded by the Nigerian constitution (as amended) and other international instruments. We believe that there are civilise grievance mechanisms existing in our system for one to seek redress rather than the resort to violence.
“Government, we must say, has the responsibility of providing adequate security for the people hence we would advise that it is not enough to only condemn the criminal acts but to ensure that life and property are protected”.
MASOP condemns assassination attempt on Jerry Needam
