Khana Traditional Rulers Endorse Tinubu’s Appointments, Warn Against Media Attacks on Ogoni Leaders

The Khana Local Government Traditional Rulers’ Council has thrown its weight behind Nigeri’s President, Bola Tinubu, over recent appointments of prominent Ogoni sons and daughters to key national offices.

Rising from an extraordinary meeting in Bori, the traditional headquarters of the Ogoni people, on Monday, September 1, 2025, the council chaired by His Majesty, King Dr. Baridam Suanu Timothy Yormaadam, Gbenemene and Kasimene of the Ancient Bangha Kingdom commended the President for establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoniland.

They also hailed the appointment of Professor Don Baridam as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, alongside Emmanuel  Deeyah as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP).

Describing the moves as a boost to inclusive governance and empowerment of the Ogoni community, the council said they are behind thw President.

“The President is the head of the executive arm of government and has the constitutional right to make such appointments. We give full backing to Mr. Deeyah’s appointment.”

The traditional rulers further congratulated Bariere Thomas on his election as Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, as well as the 19 councillors elected during the August 30 polls.

They urged the new administration to govern inclusively, serving all residents of Khana regardless of political affiliation.

However, the council expressed displeasure over what it described as “irresponsible media attacks” against the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, Deeyah, and other distinguished sons and daughters of Khana.

They warned that continued attacks would be met with stiff sanctions by the traditional institution.

Reaffirming their commitment to unity and peace, the traditional rulers called on all Khana people to respect constituted authorities and support the government’s efforts to bring development to Ogoni land.