NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Kinetic action alone cannot end terrorism – British official

141 total views today

By Hamza Suleiman

Cynthia Rowe, Development Director for the British High Commission in Nigeria says military action alone is insufficient to address terrorism and violent extremism in the Lake Chad Basin region.

Rowe made the statement during the launch of the Community-Based Reconciliation and Reintegration (CBRR) Policy and Transitional Justice Framework at the 5th Lake Chad Governor’s Forum held on Thursday in Maiduguri.

Speaking at a high-level forum on counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria, Rowe stressed the need for a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach to security challenges that go beyond military action.

Rowe, a representative of the International Support Group, added that, “the one thing that we all know is that kinetic action alone is not enough to resolve the challenges around extremism and terrorism that many people are facing.

“Effective security measures must also address the underlying causes of extremism, through dialogue, justice, and development,” she said.

She emphasised the importance of integrating both local and national systems, engaging traditional leaders, and ensuring that counterterrorism measures uphold the dignity of affected communities.

“Understanding the root causes of extremism and addressing them through dialogue and community based solutions is essential.

“Reconciliation and community resilience are just as crucial as military action,” she said.

The British official further stressed that crime and insecurity required strategic, accountable, and sustainable solutions.

She pointed to the necessity of practical action, adding that, “the final word I would actually give to Madame Wondu, is about action, not paper; and I think that’s what we are all here for in the end.”

Rowe also spoke about the need for cross-border cooperation among the Lake Chad Basin countries, noting the shared challenges of insecurity, displacement, and extremism facing Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger.

“It’s fascinating to have our colleagues from Cameroon here who can share insights on what is happening in their country.

“We all have unique experiences but common challenges, and we can learn a lot from one another.”

Reflecting on her previous experience working in Nepal, Rowe spotlighted the importance of collaboration and communication in crisis management.

“The lessons we learned in Nepal about transitional justice and communication are still relevant today.

“The global community is watching Africa, and we are committed to addressing these challenges together,” she said.

Rowe also commended Nigerian officials for their ongoing efforts in engaging with regional stakeholders to find sustainable solutions, and stressed the need for continued international support and collaboration to rebuild communities and restore peace across the region.

She also expressed gratitude for the contributions of organisations such as the European Union and the UNDP in supporting peace-building efforts.

“The world is watching, and it’s critical that we continue working together to address the root causes of extremism and displacement,” she added.

Earlier, Amb. Mamman Nuhu, the Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), underscored the importance of a harmonised and coherent approach to national and local reintegration efforts in the Lake Chad Basin.

He noted that the CBRR policy provided guidance to affected countries to support the reintegration process, while recognising the unique context of each member country.

The executive secretary emphasised the necessity of adopting the policy to local circumstances to ensure its effectiveness.

“The CBRR policy recognises the importance of community-level reconciliation and traditional justice to sustain reintegration efforts.

“It also acknowledges that these community-level processes complement nationally-led prosecution strategies and formal mechanisms,” he said.

Nuhu highlighted that the policy also addressed the trauma and damage caused by conflict in affected communities, with a focus on community readiness and the restoration of social and productive infrastructure.

He pointed out that reconciliation formed the foundation for justice and reintegration support, adding that, “it’s crucial to understand the role communities play in the reintegration process,” Nuhu said.

The scribe explained that the policy aimed to harness the capacities of men, women, youth, children, and different groups within the community to ensure the success of the reintegration efforts.

The CBRR policy also proposes the establishment of community committees to drive the process at the local level, with guidance from a central committee overseeing the entire process.

Nuhu explained that these committees would work in tandem with appropriate regional, national, and local governance structures to ensure the success of reconciliation and reintegration. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Maureen Atuonwu

PPDC, ministry of justice seek compliance with FOI Act

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By Jacinta Nwachukwu

Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) and the Federal Ministry of Justice have urged private and public institutions to actively comply with the principles of Freedom of Information Act for more accountability.

The actors made the call during a roundtable engagement on the submission of the compliance reports on Freedom of Information (FOI) Act by public institutions in Abuja.

In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer, PPDC, Lucy Abagi, said that the event was organised to promote transparency and accountability in governance by ensuring compliance with the Act.

Abagi said that the Act had remained a democratic instrument empowering citizens with the right to public information and fostering a culture of openness.

According to her, FOI has played an official role in social accountability, reducing corruption and promoting public trust in government institutions.

She said over the last 10 years, PPDC had been pioneering the FOI ranking, adding that for every year, it tried to assess the proactive disclosure of ministries, departments and agencies with the FOI Act.

Abagi said although progress had been made, challenges still persisted in achieving full compliance with the Act by public institutions.

“We’ve also identified a lot of gaps; you know, when you are dealing with the government, there’s always some level of transfers that happens with officers to different agencies or to different states.

“So there’s a lot of capacity gaps, one of which is for the FOI desk officers to respond to the FOI Act requests by citizens or other organisations to actually know where monies are going to and what those monies are being used for.

“So this training, in partnership with the ministry of justice, is to begin to identify areas of gaps and challenges that need to be filled across over 150 public institutions.

“We are hoping that governments are not just spending money on the budget, or are not just easily funding without accountability.

“We want to ensure that our procurement process is right; we want to ensure that there is transparency; we want to ensure that there is reduced corruption,” she said.

Abagi also encouraged all stakeholders to consider the training as an opportunity to address challenges, share experiences and explore innovative ways of strengthening compliance.

According to her, transparency is not just a legal requirement, it is a responsibility that promotes trust and drives sustainable growth in the society.

“We are dedicated to advancing procurement transparency and improving citizens’ access to information,” she added.

Earlier, the Head of Freedom of Information Unit, ministry of justice, Mr Garuba Godwin, while giving an overview of the FOI Act, said it was applicable to all MDAs.

Godwin said that the Act also applied to private institutions utilising public funds; hence the need for both government and private institutions to comply with its principles.

He said that with the establishment of the Act, no public document would become secret officially, saying that every Nigerian citizen had the right to access information from public documents.

“Last year, we had about 91 public institutions that complied with the release of government information.

“The honorable minister of justice has taken administrative action to ensure that this year, if not half of the total number of the public institutions we have in this country, we should have a majority of them complying.

“Last year, we engaged about 100, and this year, we are engaging about 300; so they have come to the knowledge that government activities are no longer secret.

“Citizens should have access to exactly what the government is doing, and if you look at the presidency, the president also came out to hold ministers and heads of MDAs accountable for their activities,” he said.

Godwin, however, said that access to government information records was not in all circumstances, as there were some exemptions to the Act.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the training was organised by the centre, in collaboration with the ministry of justice, with the support of MacArthur Foundation. (NAN)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

FIDA pledges quick justice for GBV victims

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By Justina Auta

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has expressed its commitment to removing barriers that hinder swift access to prosecution and justice for survivors and victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko, Chairperson of FIDA’s Abuja branch, made this commitment in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of a media parley in Abuja.

Onyenucheya-Uko expressed concern over the rising cases of GBV in the country, emphasising the need for urgent action to address the issue.

She explained that the association provides free legal services to survivors and victims of GBV, ensuring they have access to justice, legal advice, and counselling.

She encouraged women experiencing abuse to speak out and utilise the various legal provisions in place to protect them.

“There are ample laws to protect women. It is important that they speak up and stay true to their cases.

“While justice may not always be swift, it is essential to trust the process rather than settling with abusers who may become repeat offenders,” she said.

She said that the enactment of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act in 2015, was a significant step towards addressing GBV.

“However, its full implementation is necessary to ensure that survivors get access to justice.

“FIDA Nigeria played a critical role in the movement for the passage of the VAPP Act.

“Through this law and the practice direction issued by the Chief Judge of the FCT, delays in adjudicating SGBV cases have been drastically reduced.

“Dedicated courts now expedite such cases to ensure that justice is served,” she said.

She that FIDA Abuja remained at the forefront of implementing the VAPP Act and advocating for the rights of survivors of gender-based violence.

She, therefore, encouraged the society to support victims to speak out to reduce  prevalence of violence and other harmful practices against women and children.

“It is unfair to judge or doubt victims. When we support and believe them, we create an environment that discourages abuse and provides justice for survivors,” she said.

She urged the media to partner with FIDA and other stakeholders to amplify issues affecting women and children on their platforms.

According to her, speedy prosecution process will ensure justice for survivors and serve as deterrent to others.

“My expectation from this meeting is that it will birth partnerships and collaborations that will help FIDA Abuja branch enjoy the support of media practitioners.

“This will focus attention on issues affecting women and children, while combating discriminatory and abusive practices,” she said.

The chairperson also called on the general public to empathise with survivors and refrain from “victim-blaming”. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

PPDC unveils initiative to reduce prison congestion

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By Ibironke Ariyo

The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has launched an initiative aimed at reducing prison congestion and promoting access to justice for indigent inmates in Nigeria.

The initiative, named, “Reforming Pre-trial Detention in Nigeria Project,” was introduced by the organisation’s Chief Executive Officer, Lucy Abagi.

She made the announcement during a visit to law clinics at the University of Abuja and Philomath University, in Abuja.

Abagi explained that the project was designed to addressed the issue of Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs) in custody.

She said the initiatives supported by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, involved deploying law clinicians to prisons to provide free legal services such as legal counselling, court representation, and advocacy for inmates.

Abagi highlighted the pressing issue of prison congestion in Nigeria, noting that over 60,000 inmates were currently awaiting trial.

She stressed that the initiative was designed to reduce this backlog by providing legal services to indigent inmates.

“The programme also aims to train law students and young lawyers to offer pro bono services, further increasing access to justice.

“The training of law students and young lawyers is critical to expanding the pool of legal support for inmates.

“The initiative, which will run until 2026 with the possibility of extension, is set to be implemented in 10 locations across five states, including Kaduna, Nasarawa, Lagos, Abuja, and Adamawa,” Abagi said.

Abagi called for support from the government and other stakeholders, urging them to contribute to the initiative’s success.

She believed the initiative would make a significant impact on thousands of inmates and contribute to the reform of the Nigerian justice system.

“We urge the government and other stakeholders to support this cause, as it has the potential to make a real difference in the lives of inmates across the country.

‘”By working together, we can promote access to justice and reduce prison congestion in Nigeria,” Abagi urged.

The Vice Chancellor of Philomath University, Prof. Gylych Jelilov, speaking during the event, commended the initiative and assured that donated items would be used effectively at the Kuje Custodial Centre and across Nigeria.

Similarly, Prof. Uwakwe Abugu, Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Abuja, lauded the PPDC and the American Embassy for their donations.

He noted that the equipment would aid in providing justice to inmates who previously lacked access to legal assistance.

“The equipment they donated to us is coming at the nick of time, and as we all know, Nigeria needs access to justice more than any other country in Africa.

“Our law clinics have been working hard, but we faced many constraints. However, with this equipment, it will go a long way in ensuring that those who need intervention receive it. We are going to do more,” he assured.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event saw the deployment of various items, including computers, furniture, printers, cameras, files, and solar facilities, which will support the initiative’s legal services.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

GBV: Don’t die in silence – Magistrate to men

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By Amina Ahmed

A Chief Magistrate in Bauchi State, Mrs Amina Garuba, has encouraged men to break the culture of silence and speak out to seek justice against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

Garuba said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi.

”Men suffer emotional, physical and psychological violence from their spouses but they tend to remain silent.

”Most of them deny themselves access to justice due to culture and tradition,” she said.

Garuba said the Violence Against Person Prohibition Law (VAPP) was domesticated in the state to punish perpetrators of all forms of gender violence.

“The VAPP law is for all citizens of the state whether man, woman or people with special needs.

“Please speak out. There are case managers who will offer support services and follow up on cases when they go to trial,” she said.

Also speaking, a case manager with a civil society organisation who pleaded for anonymity, said that, ”men have begun to seek counseling and justice for SGBV.

”Women traumatise their husbands, especially for economic reasons. We are calling for safe space for men to access counseling,” he said.

Earlier, Alhaji Sulaiman Bashir, the community head of Daniya ward in Bauchi, said that the SGBV Network and Referral Committee has recorded cases from male and boys survivors of SGBV. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Group canvasses democracy that delivers peace, prosperity, justice

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By Naomi Sharang

Dr Kletsaint Akor, Chairman, Proponent Council, National Democracy Stakeholders Group (NDSG), has called on stakeholders to build a democracy that will deliver peace, prosperity and justice for citizens.

He made the call at the opening of Nigeria Democracy Week 2024, tagged: “Quarter of a Century of Sustained Democracy in Nigeria’s 64 Years of Statehood”, in Abuja.

Akor said that the occasion was a moment of reflection, celebration and renewed commitment to the ideals that had shaped the country’s democratic journey over the past 25 years.

“As we gather here today, we are reminded of the resilience, sacrifices and aspirations that have brought us to this significant milestone.

“Democracy, as we know, is not just a system of governance; it is a collective effort that demands our continuous dedication to equity, justice and inclusivity.

“As we celebrate 25 years of democratic governance, let us remember that the true measure of democracy is not in the number of years it endures but in the lives it transforms.

“Let us commit ourselves to building a democracy that delivers peace, prosperity and justice for all Nigerians,” he said.

Akor called on the country’s leaders to prioritise transparency, accountability and the welfare of the people.

“The strength of a democracy lies not in its institutions but in the trust that citizens place in their leaders,” he said.

In his remarks, the Chairman, Steering Board of NDSG, Morgan Okwoche, said the most significant achievements of Nigeria’s democracy had been the peaceful transition of power between administrations, particularly across party lines.

Okwoche, however, identified some challenges in Nigeria’s democratic journey, including insecurity, economic inequality, civic apathy, insurgency in the north-east, banditry and communal insecurity.

“These issues have disrupted governance and have also eroded economic development,” he said.

Okwoche called on stakeholders to renew their commitment to the ideals of democracy and the vision of a united, inclusive and thriving Nigeria.

Also speaking, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, said that the past 25 years of uninterrupted democracy represented a triumph for Nigerians.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Egbetokun was represented by the Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Olatunji Disu.

He said that the uninterrupted democracy was a statement of an enduring commitment to the principle of governance, the rule of law and the freedom that underpinned democratic systems.

“For the Nigerian Police Force, this period has underscored our vital roles as custodians of peace and security, which are fundamental to the success of any democracy,” he said.

Similarly, the Controller-General of Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), Haliru Nababa, said that there were no fewer than 83,000 inmates in 265 custodial centres across the country.

Nababa, who was represented by Assistant Controller of Corrections, Ope Fatinikun, added that there were also a total of 53,000 awaiting trials.

“Democracy has given the NCS space to operate. Democracy has been a good journey so far,” he remarked. (NAN)

Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq

FG promises justice for victims of terrorism

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensure that victims of terrorism get justice.

The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, gave the assurance at the launch of the Model Legal Provisions (MLP) for Victims of Terrorism, at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), on Wednesday in Abuja.

The minister was represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Mr Abubakar Babadoko.

He said the event marked a significant step forward in the collective efforts to address the needs and rights of victims and survivors of terrorism.

According to him, Nigeria has been at the forefront of the global fight against terrorism.

“We have witnessed first-hand the devastating impact of terrorist attacks, which not only claim lives but also leave lasting scars on individuals, families, and communities.

“As Government, we recognise the importance of addressing the needs of victims, as the scourge of terrorism has cast a long shadow over the nation, leaving behind a trail of suffering, loss, and trauma.

“It is therefore imperative that we not only combat terrorism but also provide comprehensive support to its victims.

“As the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, I am committed to ensuring that the rights of victims are upheld and that justice is served,’’ he said.

Fagbemi said the government had taken significant strides in recent years to enhance its counterterrorism efforts like the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act 2022, with its provisions for the Victim Support Trust Fund.

According to him, Section 91 of the Act establishes the Victim Support Trust Fund, which aims to provide financial assistance and other forms of support to victims of terrorism.

He added that Section 92 of the Act made provision for establishing the Trust Fund Committee for the purpose of administering the fund.

He gave assurance of his office’s commitment, as the custodian of the law, to ensuring the effective implementation of those provisions and the Model Legal Provisions.

“Today, we gather to launch a technical assistance project aimed at implementing Model Legal Provisions for Victims of Terrorism.

“We are confident that this technical assistance project will play a pivotal role in building the capacity of our legal and judicial institutions to effectively apply these provisions.

“By adopting and implementing these provisions, we will ensure that victims receive the necessary support, compensation, and rehabilitation they need to rebuild their lives,’’ he added.

The National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said that Nigeria had borne witness to the extreme consequences of terrorism since 2009, with women, children, and youth disproportionately affected over the years.

Laka said that children had been abducted and forcibly trained to fight, young girls used in suicide missions and exploited as sex slaves, and survivors left with deep scars of trauma and stigmatisation.

According to him, these tragic events have shattered families and left entire communities grappling with fear, loss, and a deep sense of insecurity.

“Beyond the immediate victims, the ripple effects are felt in the displacement of populations, the disruption of education, and the breakdown of social cohesion.

“Against this backdrop, today’s launch of the MLP Project to support the needs and protect the rights of victims and survivors of terrorism marks a significant step forward,’’ he said.

Laka said the project was aimed at building Nigeria’s capacity to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute terrorist offences, while ensuring robust support for victims. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

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