HYPREP Calls on Ogoni Communities to Embrace Alternative Dispute Resolution for Peace and Development

The Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) has called on stakeholders in Ogoni to adopt Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) measures as a pathway to lasting peace and development. The agency also urged residents to move away from divisive perceptions that hinder community progress.

Prof. Nenibarini Zabbey, HYPREP Project Coordinator, made the remarks on Monday during a workshop on ADR and peacebuilding techniques in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. He stressed that the time has come for all Ogoni people to unite for development, setting aside attitudes and perceptions that do not foster collective growth.

Zabbey emphasized the critical role of leaders, noting that their words, actions, and body language can either promote peace or escalate conflicts. He highlighted that the workshop aims to strengthen stakeholders’ capacities in ADR and peacebuilding, reinforcing the importance of communication, trust, and active engagement in preventing disputes from turning violent.

“Development cannot thrive without communication and trust. We must continue talking, listening, engaging, and preventing disputes from degenerating into violence,” Zabbey said.

Reaffirming HYPREP’s commitment to the Ogoni region, he cited the agency’s ongoing projects in environmental restoration, potable water provision, livelihood restoration, public health interventions, and the Ogoni Power Project. Zabbey expressed confidence that the workshop would nurture new champions of peace and contribute significantly to the community’s collective advancement.