In a recently circulated audio, Jammeh accused the Senegalese coalition government, particularly Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, of “stealing Gambia’s oil”. Coming from a former head of state, with presumed access to confidential intelligence and state secrets, such a claim carries weight and must not be brushed aside.
Mr President, but Jammeh’s accusations also raise a crucial questions: If oil was truly discovered under his watch, why didn’t he secure it for Gambians during his 22-year rule? Why was there no transparency, no substantial development, no benefit to the people? His sudden outcry, years after being ousted, cannot excuse the missed opportunities of his own administration.
Mr President, that said, the burden of leadership now rests on your shoulders. Your silence and that of your government only deepens public suspicion. The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy must urgently address the matter with facts. Where do we stand on the search for oil? Have there been any confirmed discoveries? Are there agreements with foreign governments, including Senegal, that citizens should be aware of?
Mr President, in August 2024, your Minister for Petroleum and Energy, Mr Nani Juwara, told The Point that no official oil discovery has been made, though The Gambia’s geological formation suggests potential. He also acknowledged that our country shares offshore boundaries with Senegal, which could make the issue even more sensitive. Yet, no official update has followed.
Meanwhile, a senior government official recently confirmed to this outlet that oil prospects exist but must be thoroughly explored before any claims of discovery can be validated.
This ambiguity leaves room for misinformation, speculation, and public anxiety.
Mr President, this is not just about countering Yahya Jammeh. It’s about demonstrating transparency, protecting national sovereignty, and respecting the intelligence of Gambian citizens. A clear, official statement from your office or the Petroleum Ministry can help dispel rumours, calm tensions, and reinforce trust in your leadership.
However, Dr Ceesay the Minister for Information has told West Coast Radio that: "The Gambia has yet to discover oil and this government will not throw away its oil just like that in another country."
Mr President, let the truth come from you; not from audios, hearsay, or conspiracy theories.The nation is watching. The people are listening.
If there's no clarification from government to set the record straight, the claim by Jammeh could create unnecessary tensions between The Gambia and Senegal and make Gambians furious about the deal.
Good day!
Editorial of The Point