Prince Kabari Op-Agara Akeeyor VII of Ogoniland has renewed his call for political justice, democratic inclusion and equitable representation in Rivers South-East Senatorial District, insisting that his ongoing legal challenge is about protecting the rights, voice and future of the people.
The Ogoni prince disclosed that the suit before the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt remains active and has been fixed for substantive hearing, stressing that the issues before the court are far from settled.
According to Kabari, the legal action seeks to ensure that the electoral process is conducted fairly, lawfully and in accordance with democratic principles, rather than undermine democracy as some critics have suggested.
“Our confidence remains firmly rooted in the rule of law and in the ability of our courts to dispense justice without fear or favour,” he stated.
His position comes as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reaffirmed its commitment to conducting the Rivers South-East Senatorial District by-election alongside five other bye-elections despite ongoing legal disputes.
While INEC maintains that coordinated election timelines are necessary to guarantee certainty, transparency and administrative efficiency, Kabari argues that the debate extends beyond electoral procedures and courtrooms.
For him, the contest represents a broader struggle for democratic participation, fairness, inclusion and the political future of Rivers South-East.
At the heart of his message is a call for what he describes as “sensible and selfless senatorial service” — leadership built on competence, accountability, courage, compassion and genuine commitment to the people.
Unveiling a vision for Rivers South-East, Kabari outlined priorities including economic empowerment, youth development, quality education, healthcare, infrastructure renewal, environmental justice, entrepreneurship, security and human capital development.
He said true representation should not be defined by title, privilege or entitlement, but by service, accessibility, integrity and measurable results.
“The forthcoming Rivers South-East Senatorial District by-election presents a defining opportunity to reimagine leadership, representation and service,” he said.
Kabari also highlighted what he described as a strategic roadmap for sustainable development and innovative legislative initiatives capable of unlocking new opportunities across the district.
Drawing inspiration from the historic Ogoni struggle for justice and self-determination, he urged the people to remain united, peaceful and committed to pursuing their aspirations through lawful and democratic means.
In a message titled Our Ogoni Stand, the prince called on Ogonis and residents of Rivers South-East to defend the ideals of equity, freedom and inclusion championed by previous generations, warning against any form of marginalisation or exclusion.
According to him, the movement is a collective effort to secure a stronger voice for the people, strengthen democratic values and build a more prosperous future for the district.
“The journey continues. Justice remains our objective. Democracy remains our cause. The people remain our priority,” Kabari declared.
As stakeholders await the court’s determination on the substantive issues before it, the development has intensified conversations about electoral fairness, political inclusion, effective representation and the future direction of Rivers South-East Senatorial District.
