The Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) has issued a stern warning against Ethiopia’s ongoing attempts to extract oil in the Ogaden region without addressing the unresolved political rights of the Somali people. The statement specifically targets the recent meeting between the Somali Regional State’s Energy and Mining Office and Chinese oil company Poly-GCL, accusing them of advancing secret plans to exploit Somali resources.

ONLF Challenges Ethiopia’s Authority Over Somali Resources

ONLF emphasized that Abiy Ahmed’s administration holds no legitimate authority over Somali resources and labeled any agreements made with foreign corporations as “null and void.” The group insists that only the Somali people have the right to decide how their resources are managed and warned that any attempt to exploit these resources without legitimate consent would be considered an illegal act.

“No justice, no oil,” the ONLF statement declared, highlighting the long-standing struggle of the Somali people for self-determination. The group insists that any discussions on resource extraction must be preceded by a resolution of Somali political rights.

Historical Context and Allegations of Oppression

ONLF also referenced a painful history of conflict, citing the 2007 incident when Poly-GCL allegedly attempted to extract oil in Obole. According to the statement, the resistance was met with a brutal Ethiopian military response, including “indiscriminate massacres, destruction of villages, and gross human rights violations.” The group claims that hundreds of thousands of Somali civilians were killed, with no accountability or compensation provided.

“The cost of Somali blood cannot be ignored,” the statement read, warning that ignoring these historical grievances would only exacerbate tensions.

Warning to China and Poly-GCL

The ONLF directly addressed Poly-GCL and the Chinese government, urging them to reconsider any involvement in resource extraction within the Somali region. “If they attempt to extract oil or any other resources from Somali territory without clear and legitimate consent, they will bear full responsibility for the repercussions,” the statement warned.

ONLF concluded by reiterating that Somali resources belong to the Somali people and any attempt to seize them by force will be met with strong resistance.

The Bigger Picture

The statement underscores the broader geopolitical and human rights issues at play, as Ethiopia’s development projects continue to intersect with local grievances and historical conflicts. The situation highlights the complex dynamics between resource extraction, indigenous rights, and international corporate involvement in the Horn of Africa.