Political Mobilization using Indigenous Peoples’ Platforms: The Challenges and Paradox of Ogoni Mobilization for Self-Determination in Nigeria

Abstract

The inalienable right of all peoples’ to self-determination under international law equally applies to indigenous peoples and nations around the world. The study investigates what transnational civil mobilization at the global, the regional and local level have contributed towards Ogoni peoples’ mobilization for self-autonomy in Nigeria.

Using the political theory of civil society and social actions, the study argues that MOSOP’s mobilization and social actions towards self-governance in Nigeria are caught up within the paradoxical circumstances where some criminal gangs are taking advantage of the political and economic situation to wreck havoc on the Nigerian state and innocent citizens. Dangerous precedents have been set to label and stereotype civil socio-political movements as violent, terrorists and secessionist movements in Nigeria.

That being said, Ogoni self-determination and resource control remains complex and controversial theme, also fishing out the ‘bad eggs’ among social activists/group supporters is an issue that should not be ignored or taken with levity as the MOSOP continue in its strive mobilizing towards achieving Ogoni self-rule in Nigeria.

Key Words: Political Mobilization, Ogoni Self-Determination, Civil Social Actions, Paradox, Challenges, MOSOP and Nigeria