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HEDA Joins NiMet, Stakeholders to Unveil 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction February 4

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is set to participate in the highly anticipated unveiling of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025. The event, themed ‘The Role of Early Warnings towards a Climate Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development,’ promises to deliver critical insights into Nigeria’s climatic future. Whereas the NiMet’s SCP is critical for the smooth running of the aviation sector, it is important to note that it is even more critical for other sectors such as agriculture, health, environment, construction, transportation, and maritime etc. Moreover, due to the climate-dependent nature of agriculture in Nigeria and Africa, timely and reliable climate forecasts are essential for food production and hunger eradication. For years, HEDA Resource Centre has leveraged NiMet’s annual SCP to conduct downscale training for farmers across Nigeria. These trainings equip farmers with essential information on how and when to plant their crops to avoid losses due to adverse weather conditions, droughts, and floods. The SCP provides vital forecasts, including the onset and cessation dates of the rainy season, expected rainfall volume, and temperature patterns, which are crucial for guiding agricultural practices and ensuring food security. NiMet’s SCP is a comprehensive climate prediction document that not only benefits agriculture but also impacts various sectors such as aviation, disaster risk management, health, and water resources management. The socioeconomic implications of these forecasts highlight the importance of early warnings in adapting to climate change and building resilience. In conclusion, HEDA commends the Director General/Chief |Executive Officer of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike and his entire team for the annual and timely release of climate data that are critical for food production, public health management and economic diversification.

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Civil Society Organizations Condemn Resumption of Oil Production in Ogoniland

Concerned civil society organizations in the Niger Delta convened at the Port Harcourt office of Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria to discuss a recent invitation extended by the office of the National Security Adviser to the President, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu. The invitation was addressed to selected Ogoni leaders and stakeholders for a private meeting in Abuja to deliberate on the resumption of oil production in Ogoniland. In their deliberations, the organizations expressed strong condemnation of the government’s move, labeling it insensitive and neglectful of the majority will of the Ogoni people. The groups highlighted that any discussion about oil production should involve broad, inclusive consultations rather than select, handpicked leaders. In a statement released by the coalition of civil groups, including Miideekor Environmental Development Initiative, Ogoni Solidarity Forum-Nigeria, South South Youths Initiative, Peoples Advancement Centre, Environmental Rights Action, Kebetkache Women Development Centre, Social Action, Lekeh Development Centre, Rainbowwatch Development Centre, Kalop Environmental Centre, Pilex Centre, and HEDA Resource Centre, unequivocally condemned the planned resumption of oil exploration and production activities in Ogoniland. The statement emphasized that this decision undermines the enduring environmental, social, and economic injustices faced by the Ogoni people and thwarts efforts towards sustainable development and environmental justice. Ogoniland has long been a symbol of severe environmental degradation caused by decades of irresponsible oil exploitation. Reports, including the UNEP Environmental Assessment of Ogoniland of 2011, have documented catastrophic consequences of oil spills, gas flaring, and inadequate remediation efforts, leaving the land, water, and air polluted and affecting the livelihoods and health of the Ogoni people. The civil groups voiced their expectations for the administration to call for a multi-stakeholder meeting in Ogoniland to address the poverty and hunger resulting from environmental degradation. They pointed out that since democracy was restored in 1999, significant issues like June 12 and the Ogoni struggle have plagued the nation. While the government has recognized MKO Abiola as the hero of democracy by conferring a national honor on him, they stressed that it is time to similarly honor Ken Saro-Wiwa as a hero of the environment. Despite numerous calls for justice, the Nigerian government has been slow in implementing the UNEP report recommendations for effective cleanup. The government’s reluctance to contribute to the ongoing cleanup and its blind eye to continuing destructive oil activities were also criticized. The attempt to resume oil extraction in Ogoniland, a region ravaged by environmental neglect, was seen as exacerbating the suffering of the people and violating their right to a safe environment. The coalition demanded the halting of all plans for resumption of oil extraction in Ogoniland until meaningful consultations with the Ogoni people and full remediation of the damaged environment are achieved. They called for a comprehensive cleanup of the Niger Delta region, with substantial funding, and for holding oil companies, particularly Shell, accountable for past environmental damages. They also demanded the exoneration of Ken Saro-Wiwa and other martyrs, the release of the confiscated Ken Saro-Memorial Bus sculpture, and the implementation of strict regulations on oil companies. In closing, the groups reiterated their solidarity with the Ogoni people in their fight for justice, sustainable development, and respect for their rights to a clean and healthy environment. They warned that any attempt to resume oil activities without addressing historical injustices would only deepen the mistrust between the government, oil companies, and local communities, threatening the environment and future generations.

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Sowore Advocates for Reforms to Combat Human Rights Abuses in Nigeria

At the latest session of the HEDA Resource Centre’s monthly advocacy series (MAS) X-Space, Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of Sahara Reporters, delivered a stark evaluation of the current state of human rights in Nigeria. Speaking on the theme “2024 Review of Human Rights Abuse in Nigeria,” Sowore expressed deep concerns about the alarming regression of human rights in the country, emphasizing that the situation is now worse than during the military rule. Sowore criticized the Nigerian Police Force for prioritizing the suppression of legitimate human rights activism over combating crime. He highlighted daily violations of freedom of speech and pointed out the widespread harassment of citizens both online and offline by law enforcement. He cited numerous instances of disregard for court orders and lamented the plight of the 48,000 individuals awaiting trial, most of whom are poor. “Nigeria is in a state of absolute impunity,” he stated, adding, “A state where those responsible for law and order feel exempt from the rule of law themselves.” Sowore painted a vivid picture of a legal system that selectively targets the poor while allowing the powerful to evade justice. He likened Nigerian law to a cobweb that entraps only the weak, leaving the powerful untouched. The Sahara Reporter’s publisher condemned the government’s efforts to stifle freedom of speech, tracing this issue back to the Jonathan administration’s introduction of the Cyber Crime Act. “Initially aimed at combating internet fraud, the act has been misused to suppress dissent. Despite the repeal of Section 24, law enforcement continues to enforce it.” Sowore also noted the government’s failed attempts to pass social media laws and their continued use of outdated laws to target activists. Sowore emphasized the economic impact of these human rights violations, particularly how the internet has become a crucial economic hub for many Nigerians. He argued that the suppression of free speech not only affects physical freedoms but also destroys economic livelihoods and stifles creativity and democratic participation. Expressing concern over the diminishing role of civil society organizations, Sowore questioned their commitment to defending human rights and demanding good governance. He criticized the complacency and collaboration of some civil society groups with the authorities, undermining their effectiveness. Sowore called on Nigerian citizens to challenge the government both online and in person. He stressed that the government itself is often the primary source of fake news and that its duty is to tell the truth about its actions. In his concluding remarks, Sowore urged for renewed efforts towards genuine law enforcement and respect for human rights in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of free speech in fostering democracy and creativity in any society. The session concluded with a call to action for civil society organizations to step up their efforts in defending human rights and for citizens to remain vigilant and active in the fight for justice.

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HEDA Condemns Arrest of Muhuyi Magaji and intimidation of Sowore, Calls Out IGP for Distracting Anti-Corruption Efforts

HEDA Resource Centre has strongly condemned the recent arrest and detention of Muhuyi Magaji, Chairman of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, and invitation of Sowore Omoyele by the Nigerian police under the supervision of Mr. Kayode Egbetokun. These actions, purportedly ordered by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), are blatant abuse of power and an attempt to intimidate Magaji, celebrated Kano State Anti-Corruption Czar from fighting corruption involving high-profile figures connected to the ruling part, and Sowore from exposing police excesses on our roads. The arrest of Magaji, reportedly linked to the seizure of property allegedly tied to Abdullahi Ganduje, the National Chairman of the All-Progressives Congress (APC), raises serious concerns about the commitment of law enforcement agencies to upholding justice and combating corruption. These properties were under interim forfeiture by a competent court of law and in the custody of Kano State Government, while Sowore has recorded and exposed police officers extorting drivers under the guise of check points. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society organization described the police’s actions as an outrageous misuse of authority aimed at facilitating access to potentially looted assets while suppressing legitimate anti-corruption efforts. Suraju noted that this development threatens the credibility of Nigeria’s justice system and undermines the nation’s anti-corruption agenda. “These are unacceptable attempts by the Inspector General of Police to shield influential individuals from accountability while discouraging those fighting corruption. Muhuyi Magaji’s arrest reeks of intimidation and injustice, which cannot be tolerated in a democratic society committed to transparency and accountability,” Suraju stated. “HEDA is calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene and call the IGP and other law enforcement agencies to order. The President must ensure that law enforcement operates within the ambits of the law and does not become a tool for silencing those working to uncover corruption,” he added. Additionally, HEDA demands the immediate reversal of attempt to prosecute Muhuyi Magaji, and reversal of invitation to Sowore, an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Magaji’s arrest, and a halt to all attempts to derail ongoing legal processes concerning the seized property linked to the APC National Chairman. “Nigeria’s fight against corruption must not be compromised by political interests or institutional overreach. HEDA remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting accountability, transparency, and justice, and urges all stakeholders to prioritize the public interest above all else.” He concluded.

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HEDA Demands EFCC Investigation into Non-Executed Contracts in Ondo Community

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate and prosecute Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic for failing to execute shoreline protection contracts in Ayetoro Community, Ondo State. In a petition to Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, EFCC Executive Chairman, HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, expressed concern over the worsening environmental and socio-economic crisis in the community. Oil exploration has caused significant land loss to Atlantic Ocean incursions, leaving many residents homeless and disrupting their livelihoods. In 2004, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) awarded a ₦2.5 billion contract to Gallet Nigeria Limited, with a ₦650 million mobilization fee, to address shoreline erosion. After four years of non-execution, the contract was terminated. It was re-awarded in 2009 to Dredging Atlantic for ₦6.5 billion, with a ₦2.5 billion mobilization fee, but the project remained incomplete. HEDA highlighted the devastating impact of these failed contracts on Ayetoro, including displacement of residents and worsening climate challenges. The organization warned that continued neglect poses a broader threat to Nigeria’s coastal communities, potentially leading to submersion of cities along the Atlantic coastline. The civil society group urged the anti-graft agency to thoroughly investigate Gallet Nigeria Limited and Dredging Atlantic, prosecute those responsible, and recover misappropriated funds to address the community’s needs. “This is a clear case of how corruption deprives communities of essential resources while compounding environmental and socio-economic hardships,” said Arigbabu. “The EFCC must act decisively to restore accountability and bring justice to Ayetoro Community.” HEDA commended the EFCC for its anti-corruption efforts and expressed hope for swift resolution, alleviation of Ayetoro residents’ suffering, and safeguarding of Nigeria’s coastal regions. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, public accountability, and environmental justice, urging stakeholders to protect Ayetoro Community and ensure a sustainable future.

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HEDA Calls for Transparency in the Outcomes of Senate Hearing on Subsidy Funds and Budget Performance

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) urges the Nigeria Senate Committee on Appropriation, chaired by Senator Solomon Olamilekan, to prioritize transparency and accountability in the recent Senate hearing involving the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organization expressed serious concerns over key financial issues raised by the Senate committee, such as savings and expenditures from the removal of the fuel subsidy and debt servicing, and urged the Senate to ensure comprehensive investigations, and make the findings publicly accessible. According to Suraju, the Nigerian public have the right to know how their resources are being managed, particularly during economic challenges. He further emphasized the need for the Minister to provide detailed accounts of the savings and expenditures from subsidy removal to the Parliament, clearly outline debt servicing costs for 2024, and provide projections for 2025. The civil society organization also expressed disappointment in the apparent lack of readiness displayed by some public officials during the public hearing, and their sudden demand for closed door session with the parliamentary committee, stating that it undermines public trust in governance. “Closed-door sessions must not become a means of avoiding public accountability. Transparency in these matters is critical for fostering good governance and restoring citizens’ confidence in government institutions,” the statement added. HEDA further called on the Federal Government to enhance its public communication efforts by providing regular updates on the management of national resources. It further demands the monthly publication of FAAC allocations of the Federation across the three tiers of government. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.

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HEDA X-SPACE: Sowore to Speak on 2024 Human Rights Abuse in Nigeria

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is thrilled to announce the January 2025 edition of its Monthly Advocacy Series (MAS), a highly impactful virtual platform dedicated to addressing Nigeria’s most pressing national issues. This monthly series, tagged “Chatting with HEDA,” will feature the esteemed human rights activist and founder of Sahara Reporters, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, as the guest speaker. Scheduled for Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Nigeria time) on X (formerly Twitter) Space, the session will delve into the theme: “2024 Review of Human Rights Abuse in Nigeria.” This promises to be an engaging and illuminating discussion that will shed light on the ongoing challenges of human rights violations, political clampdowns, and the misuse of the Cybercrime Act by law enforcement agencies. This interactive program provides a unique opportunity for Mr. Sowore to share his invaluable perspectives on these critical issues, drawing from his personal experiences with political victimization and his unwavering commitment to advancing human rights and democracy. Participants can look forward to a rich discussion moderated by HEDA, featuring a 30-minute conversation, a 20-minute Q&A session, and 10 minutes dedicated to closing remarks and acknowledgments. HEDA Resource Centre remains steadfast in its mission to promote good governance, transparency, human rights, and sustainable development in Nigeria. The Monthly Advocacy Series is a cornerstone of this mission, bringing together thought leaders, activists, and the public to address issues vital to national development. We invite members of the public, civil society organizations, policymakers, and the media to join this critical conversation via HEDA’s X Page @Hedagenda on Wednesday. January 15, 2025, at 4pm.  

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Oil and Gas Exploration: 70% of Bayelsa Residents Blame Oil Activities for Pollution; 79% Suffer Health Issues, 82% Criticize Government Response – HEDA Report

–  CSO Demands effective remediation efforts, greater accountability from IOCs, FG A recent report by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has highlighted the severe impact of oil and environmental pollution in Bayelsa State, one of the oil-producing states in the Niger Delta region. The report, titled “Report of On-the-Spot Assessment of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria,” provides a detailed account of the detrimental effects of frequent oil exploitation, spills and pollution in Bayelsa. The findings reveal a significant reduction in agricultural productivity, increasing contamination of water resources, and loss of biodiversity, leading to long-term ecosystem damage and the disappearance of traditional medicinal plants. The comprehensive survey, which involved 289 respondents from all eight local government areas in Bayelsa State, including Brass, Ekremor, Lolokuma/Opokuma, Nembe, Ogbia, Sagbama, Southern Ijaw, and Yenagoa, found that 70.2% of respondents believe that oil and gas activities have significantly contributed to environmental pollution and degradation in the State. Water pollution was reported by 55.7% of respondents, making it the most prevalent type of pollution experienced. This was followed by air pollution (23.18%), soil pollution (15.92%), and other types of pollution (4.84%). The research also discovered that majority of respondents 79.24% and their families in each of the local government areas experience negative health effects due to oil pollution in their communities. The local government areas of Kolokuma/Opokuma, Nembe, and Yenagoa, which have a high number of oil installations, reported particularly high levels of health issues. On the question of government accountability, 70.24% of respondents believe that the government does not hold oil and gas companies accountable for environmental damage, while only 20.42% expressed that they are somewhat accountable, and 9.34% said they are highly accountable. Additionally, 54.86% of respondents believe that companies can adequately address concerns related to land degradation or deforestation resulting from oil and gas activities. In terms of government responsiveness, 81.94% of respondents are not satisfied with the response of federal government agencies to environmental concerns raised by the affected communities. Furthermore, 75.26% do not believe that government agencies effectively oversee and enforce regulations to protect the rights of the community. The report also evaluated the handling of oil and gas asset divestment by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) and Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) in Bayelsa State. Respondents rated the divestment handling as poor (67.13%), fair (18.34%), not available (8.65%), good (5.19%), and excellent (0.69%). Similarly, 72.32% of respondents rated the transparency of International Oil Companies (IOCs) in communicating processes as poor, while 12.80% rated it fair, 5.54% good, 0.35% excellent, and 9.00% not available. Local community involvement in the divestment process was also assessed, with 41.52% of respondents stating that they are not involved at all, 39.79% not very involved, 12.11% somewhat involved, and 0.69% very involved. Regarding the perception of companies’ responsiveness to citizens’ concerns and feedback on divestment, 42.56% of respondents said they are not responsive at all, 25.26% not very responsive, and only 1.73% found them responsive. When asked about their awareness of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) checklist, 73% of respondents said they do not know about the NUPRC checklist, while 27% said they are aware and have access to it. Focus Group Discussions conducted as part of the research highlighted several critical issues, including environmental catastrophes, severe impacts on respondents’ livelihoods, human rights violations, health crises, and socio-cultural degradation. The focus group discussions underscored the urgent need for infrastructural maintenance to prevent such failures. Meanwhile, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju emphasized the need for urgent action, stating, “The NUPRC should enforce environmental regulations with stricter penalties for non-compliant IOCs. Increased funding and ensuring transparency in remediation efforts are essential. Regular engagement between IOCs, government agencies, and communities should be mandated, along with the development of community-led monitoring initiatives. “Launching comprehensive health programs and conducting long-term health studies are vital. Sustainable livelihood programs, and fair compensation for affected communities should be prioritized. Strengthening anti-corruption frameworks with technology for transparency is crucial.” The report’s findings are stark reminders of the ecological and economic sustainability challenges facing Bayelsa State. As Suraju noted, “The findings of this research highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and effective remediation efforts, stronger regulatory enforcement, and greater accountability from both IOCs and government bodies. These measures are crucial for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of leases in various capacities and guiding development, enhancing accountability, and informing stakeholders.” The full report of the “On-the-Spot Assessment of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria” is available on the HEDA website and can be downloaded here (Report of On-the-Spot Assessment of Oil and Gas Exploration Activities in Bayelsa State, Nigeria – HEDA Resource Centre). The report offers valuable insights to inform discussions, policies, and decisions shaping the nation’s future.

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Ex-Oni Queen, Naomi Silekunola, Chairman Agidigbo FM, Oriyomi Hamzat. CategoriesHEDA News

Ibadan Stampede: HEDA Warns Against Criminalizing Charity, Urges Makinde, Police to Prioritize Unbiased Investigation

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Oyo State Government and relevant authorities to avoid criminalizing charity in the investigation of the tragic stampede during a Christmas charity event in Ibadan. The incident, which involved Ex-Oni Wife Silekunola Naomi, Oriyomi Hamzat, and Islamic School Principal Abdullahi Fasasi, has drawn widespread attention. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, the organization emphasized the need for a thorough and impartial investigation, urging against scapegoating and bias. It stressed the urgent need for government across all levels to address the root causes of the incident, including poverty, hunger, societal values where desperation often leads to unruly behavior, even during well-meaning charitable events, and the lack of proper crowd management and safety protocols. HEDA also frowned at the continuous detention of the organizers and the school principal, who merely rented out the facility. “It is troubling to see the government and police’s approach, which seems to criminalize acts of charity and humanitarian interventions. This has long been a challenge in Nigeria, where well-intentioned individuals fear repercussions for offering help,” Arigbabu said. The organization further called on the police to conduct a transparent investigation without criminalizing goodwill and highlighted the need for well-meaning Nigerians to learn from the tragedy by prioritizing safety, crowd control, and planning in future events. The group also pointed out the need for consistent treatment of similar incidents nationwide, citing previous stampedes in Abuja and Anambra. It called for justice for victims and accountability for all stakeholders involved. “Fairness and due process must guide the investigation, and systemic issues contributing to such disasters should be addressed,” HEDA stated.

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Climate-Smart Agriculture: HEDA Partners with Fresh FM Osogbo to Empower Farmers with Climate Information

In a groundbreaking move to enhance climate awareness and support smallholder farmers who rely on predictable weather patterns in Nigeria, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Fresh FM Osogbo. This strategic partnership aims to deliver accurate and timely climate information to the public, foster climate education, and promote climate-smart agricultural practices. Through this collaboration, Fresh (104.9) FM Osogbo will leverage its wide reach across Osun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo, and parts of Kwara to disseminate vital climate updates. HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “This initiative is part of our commitment to providing farmers with essential resources like the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) from the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). We also envision this program evolving into an accountability platform where state actors are held responsible for advancing climate justice. We are excited about its potential impact.” Abiodun Opasina, Lead Agriculture Desk at Fresh FM, praised HEDA’s efforts, describing the collaboration as timely. He emphasized the alignment between the project and Fresh FM’s farming-focused weekly program, Sa’agbe Do Ola (Turns Farming to Wealth), which has a strong following among listeners. “This partnership reflects our commitment to food security by ensuring local farmers are equipped with actionable information about climate change,” Opasina added. The MOU, set to commence in January 2025, will span an initial 12 months. Under the agreement, HEDA will provide weekly climate updates, including news, tips, and other valuable content, while Fresh FM will broadcast these updates during its programs. Additionally, Fresh FM will subtly promote HEDA’s mission and activities through its radio programming and social media channels. This partnership between HEDA Resource Centre and Fresh FM Osogbo is poised to be a significant step forward in promoting sustainable agriculture and empowering farmers with the knowledge needed to adapt to changing climate conditions.

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