President Tinubu Grants Posthumous Pardons and National Honours to Ken Saro-Wiwa and Ogoni 9 on Democracy Day.

In a historic move marking Democracy Day 2025, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has granted full presidential pardons to the late Ken Saro-Wiwa and the other members of the Ogoni 9, alongside the conferment of national honours.

President Tinubu, in a landmark address commemorating Democracy Day, announced the posthumous pardon of Ken Saro-Wiwa, the renowned environmental activist and writer executed in 1995, along with the eight other members of the Ogoni 9. Saro-Wiwa was also awarded the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), while the rest of the Ogoni 9 received the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) honours.

The President described the gesture as a step towards healing longstanding wounds and reaffirming the nation’s commitment to justice and reconciliation. “Today, we honour the courage and sacrifice of Ken Saro-Wiwa and his compatriots, whose legacy continues to inspire the struggle for environmental justice and human rights in Nigeria,” President Tinubu stated.

The Ogoni 9, executed under the military regime of General Sani Abacha, were convicted on controversial charges that drew widespread international condemnation. Their deaths became a rallying point for environmental activism and human rights advocacy both within Nigeria and globally.

Families of the pardoned activists, as well as civil society groups, have welcomed the move, describing it as long overdue and a significant milestone in the quest for justice for the Ogoni people.

The awards and pardons come as Nigeria reflects on its democratic journey and the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting fundamental freedoms.

The ceremony, attended by dignitaries, activists, and members of the Ogoni community, concluded with a call for renewed efforts towards environmental restoration and inclusive development in the Niger Delta.