The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), a leading anti-corruption civil society organization, has charged the new leadership of Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), under Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN) to conduct a comprehensive review of the outcomes of the Commission’s investigation under his predecessor and take legal action against suspects implicated in the constituency project fraud spanning over a decade. ICPC reports spanning 2003 to 2024 has reportedly revealed approximately N2 trillion allocated to Nigerian lawmakers for constituency projects has yielding minimal results in terms of completed projects or community impact. This pattern underscores a systemic failure to achieve the misplaced developmental objectives established, outside the ambits of the law and separation of power under former President Olusegun Obasanjo government, with the reports highlighting egregious instances of corruption and misappropriation of public funds. In a statement issued by HEDA and signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the organization emphasizes that the failure to prosecute those implicated by the outcomes of the investigation undermines accountability and seeks to perpetuate and embolden a culture of impunity. Despite clear evidence of financial impropriety and misuse of public resources, there has been inadequate action to hold responsible parties accountable. According to the Suraju, “ICPC, both by its mandate and operations is a prosecutorial and law enforcement agency, not a recovery agency.” “We therefore call for a comprehensive review and urgent action by the ICPC to ensure accountability and prosecution of all suspects named in these reports. The mismanagement of such a substantial amount of public funds is clearly a contribution to the state of infrastructural decay, poverty, and insecurity across the country. Beyond all these, it is an affront to good governance and social justice, which could have significantly improved the lives of Nigerians.” He further emphasized, “HEDA Resource Centre reaffirms its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in public service. The organization urges the ICPC and other relevant authorities to prioritize the prosecution of those responsible for misappropriating constituency project funds to deter future acts of corruption and restore public faith in governance processes. HEDA and other civil society organisations, considering the propensity of our legislators to invoke legislative power for harassing MDAs to avoid accountability, are available to provide all the needed political and social support to all anti-corruption agencies in achieving their mandates, including this particular case.

  In a bid to bolster the democratic ethos in Nigeria, citizens have been urged to actively participate in the democratic process and stay well-informed about ongoing developments. This clarion call was made by Dapo Olorunyomi, a veteran journalist and Publisher of Premium Times, during the “Chatting with HEDA” March edition, a monthly series hosted on X space by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre. During the session themed “Actualizing Promise of Democracy: Between Active Citizens and A Bold Media,” Olorunyomi emphasized the pivotal role of citizen engagement in a democracy, underscored the importance of citizens being adequately informed about developmental agendas to ensure the realization of democracy’s dividends, particularly in terms of societal progress. “Citizens participation is the most important role to play in a democracy. In playing that role, they have to be fully informed about development, be cleared about the agenda that will move that dividend of democracy which we generally see in sense of development. They must be able to help, collate those things and present to public officials, sometimes quietly, sometimes loudly, this is the character of democracy,” Olorunyomi asserted. Furthermore, he emphasized the responsibility of citizens to hold themselves accountable in the pursuit of good governance, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling civic duties such as tax compliance and participation in electoral processes. Expounding on the role of the media in democracy, Olorunyomi delineated three key functions. Firstly, he highlighted the watchdog role of the media in holding power accountable across political, economic, and cultural spheres. Secondly, he underscored the media’s responsibility in agenda setting, ensuring that pertinent issues are brought to the forefront of public discourse. Lastly, he emphasized the media’s role as a platform for authentic debate and consensus-building within society. Addressing the collaboration between media and anti-corruption agencies, Olorunyomi stressed the crucial role of journalism in exposing corruption and advocating for mechanisms to combat it. He emphasized the need to mobilize citizens towards a corruption-free society, thereby strengthening democracy and fostering development. “One institution every democracy expect to hold that structure to account for its own roles and responsibilities and to ensure that democracy work for the citizens and the community is the media,” He maintained. Expressing concern over media freedom in Nigeria, Olorunyomi lamented the restrictive media laws compared to other African nations. He cited Ghana, Namibia, and South Africa as examples of countries with robust constitutional provisions safeguarding press freedom. “In Nigeria, there are probably about two dozens laws that make it impossible for the media to function very well. Between Ghanaian and Nigerian journalism for instance, the force and authority of our section 52 of the constitution is weaker than the 162 subsection 5 of the Ghanaian constitution, which give them effective freedom. Indeed, it is only Ghana, Namibia and South Africa have full freedom enshrined in their constitutions.” In response, HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, commended Olorunyomi’s initiatives such as Premium Times and Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) for their significant contributions to promoting good governance and accountability in Nigeria. The anti-corruption and good governance advocate further urged the media guru, Olorunyomi, to continue providing leadership in these endeavors to pave the way for future generations.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) are set for the 35th Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR) Conference slated for Thursday, April 18, 2024 in Rivers State. The ACSR, a quarterly national advocacy event of HEDA Resource Centre to bring together policy makers and citizens to discuss burning national issues will focus on tackling environmental degrading and human rights abuse issues in the Niger Delta Region. The conference also aims to develop a national framework on divestment of assets by IOCs in the oil and gas onshore exploration especially as it concerns decommissioning and abandonment. The keynote speaker of the conference is the Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Engr. Gbenga Komolafe and he will be speaking on the theme: Enhancing Citizens’ Capacity to Tackle the Triple Threats of Environmental Pollution, Human Rights Violations and Divestment in the Oil and Gas Sector Operations in the Oil Producing Areas. There will thereafter be a panel session where experts will be speaking including to discuss identified issues from the above mentioned topic. The member of the panel session include Ms. Florence Kayemba (Stakeholders Development Network); Mrs. Agharese Arase, Director National Human Rights Institute; Dr. Isaac Ozuoka, Executive Director, Social Action; and Mr. Nicholas Hildyard, Corner House, United Kingdom. The event which will also be chaired by Hon. Kayode Oladele, Former House of Representative member and Chairman, House Committee on Financial Crime promises to be a game changer in the oil and gas sector in Nigeria.

HEDA’s Monthly X Space to Discuss Justice Reform with Legal Expert, Ayo ObeHEDA’s Monthly X Space to Discuss Justice Reform with Legal Expert, Ayo Obe To engage the public on crucial topics of governance and justice reform, The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is pleased to announce its upcoming monthly event in the “Chatting with HEDA” on X Space series. The April series discussion will focus on “Administration of Criminal Justice and Promotion of Fight Against Corruption: A Case for Justice Reform.” The virtual program is slated for Wednesday, April 17th, 2024 on HEDA Resource Centre X space @Hedagenda and the guest speaker for this insightful conversation is Ms. Ayo Obe, a distinguished legal practitioner and renowned human rights activist. Ms. Obe’s wealth of experience and expertise in legal matters about justice and human rights will undoubtedly provide attendees with a profound understanding of the complexities surrounding the administration of criminal justice and the ongoing fight against corruption. The “Chatting with HEDA X Space” series is designed to create an open platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas on critical issues affecting society. This month’s topic is particularly timely given the ongoing discourse on justice reform and the imperative of combating corruption effectively within legal frameworks. HEDA is excited to have Ms. Ayo Obe as our guest speaker for this significant conversation, her insights and perspectives on the intersection of the administration of criminal justice and anti-corruption efforts will certainly enrich our understanding and spur meaningful discussions. The event is open to the general public, and attendees are encouraged to participate actively by sharing their viewpoints and engaging in constructive dialogue. This promises to be an enlightening session for anyone interested in legal reform, human rights, and the fight against corruption. Don’t miss this opportunity to join the conversation on justice reform and the fight against corruption at the upcoming “Chatting with HEDA” X Space event. Let’s come together to explore solutions and advocate for positive change in our society.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), has commended the decisive actions taken by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) under the leadership of Chairman Ola Olukoyede in the pursuit of internal accountability and transparency in the anti-graft agency, therefore called for more investigations among staff across all levels in the Commission. In a recent development and reports in the media, HEDA noted the EFCC’s termination of one of its prosecutors, Offem Uket’s contract, following serious allegations of misconduct and insubordination in the prosecution of the highly controversial and contentious Malabu OPL 245 fraud trial. According to HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, “The EFCC Chairman’s commitment to upholding integrity within its ranks is highly commendable and aligns with the principles of good governance and ethical conduct that our organization, HEDA Resource Centre advocates for in curbing corruption in the country. Considering the media reports of circumstances surrounding the unprecedented adoption of a “no case submission” of defendants in a case prosecuted by Mr. Offem Uket, the international community have not only expressed concerns but monitored the response and action of the Commission to that development. “The reported actions taken by Chairman Olukoyede demonstrate a firm stance against corruption and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professional conduct within the EFCC. It is crucial that anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria demonstrate unwavering resolve in tackling corruption at all levels, including within their own organizations. This is capable of reassuring partners of the Commission at local and international levels.” He added. Furthermore, HEDA supports the EFCC’s decision to further investigate any individuals suspected of undermining the agency’s mandate and objectives, noting that corruption erodes public trust and undermines the effectiveness of institutions tasked with upholding justice and accountability. It is imperative that those entrusted with the responsibility of combating corruption operate with the utmost integrity and adherence to ethical standards. “We urge the EFCC to continue his efforts to root out corruption and ensure that all staff, regardless of rank, adhere strictly to the principles of transparency and accountability. This includes thorough investigations into any allegations of bribery or misconduct that may compromise the agency’s ability to deliver justice, including lifestyle audit of some operatives and prosecutors. Chairman Olukoyede’s leadership in initiating these actions, both in this particular case and others before it, underscores the EFCC’s commitment to restoring public confidence and advancing the fight against corruption in Nigeria. HEDA Resource Centre stands ready to continuously support such efforts and calls on all stakeholders including the media and civil society organisations to join hands in the pursuit of a more transparent and accountable fight against corruption.

On the occasion of the 2024 World Recycling Day, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Lagos State Government to recognize waste pickers as essential contributors to recycling efforts and frontline warriors against pollution and climate change. This call to action reflects HEDA’s enduring dedication to fostering sustainable environmental practices. Aligned with this year’s World Recycling Day theme, #RecyclingHeroes, HEDA is engaging with key decision-makers in the environment sector, including the federal and States Ministries of the Environment (especially the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment). The aim is to stimulate a reassessment of the prevailing narrative surrounding waste pickers, emphasizing their critical role in combating pollution and climate change. In furtherance of this objective, HEDA strongly advocates for the integration of waste-separation-at-source into environmental policies, not only in Lagos State but also in other states across the country. HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, emphasized the importance of sorting waste at its origin for the success and profitability of recycling endeavors. He proposed the piloting of waste separation initiatives in selected communities, accompanied by incentives and support for a six-month period to facilitate learning and adaptation, with a view to upscale to all other communities in the state. Such campaign, aimed at behavioral change and paradigm shift, should involve of communities, schools, markets, religious houses, Community Development Associations (CDAs), and Community Development Committees (CDCs) in the state. He added, “Introducing competitions among school children, communities, CDAs, and CDCs to recognize the best-performing entities in waste sorting at the source and waste disposal could serve as incentives for participation and change. Furthermore, HEDA highlights the urgent need to standardize and regulate the activities of waste pickers across the state. Arigbabu stressed the importance of government intervention to ensure the production and rental of government-approved waste carts, with color coding and numbering to differentiate and identify various service providers and pushers. When pickers are organised and regulated, and can be tracked and traced, and also given route and areas to operate, with attachment to registered off takers (collectors), this will curb indiscriminate waste dumping, other criminal or nuisance activities associated with waste pickers, as well as create a conducive environment for recycling investments to thrive. Additionally, HEDA is urging Lagos State Government and other states to consider implementing color-coded waste bags for household and industrial use. HEDA also called upon the Federal Ministry of Environment to explore policies like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to bolster recycling enterprises and attract investments. Additionally, the organization emphasized the need for federal support in encouraging states to recognize and improve the status of waste pickers across the country. As an organization deeply committed to environment and climate justice and sustainable development, HEDA reaffirms its pledge to collaborate with stakeholders at all levels to promote waste reduction, reuse, recycling initiatives. The organization is a member of the Lagos Recyclers Association (LAGRA) using advocacy and training as tools to bring about a societal level paradigm shift around waste management and recycling.

In commemoration of International Women’s Day, The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the crucial contributions of smallholder women farmers in Nigeria’s quest for food security and a sustainable environment. In a letter addressed to the President, Signed by HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, the organization specifically charges President Tinubu to be more intentional about giving due attention to the contributions of women into agriculture and other nature-based livelihoods. HEDA urged the President to consider bigger and more ambitious public investment directly targeted at promoting inclusion and empowerment for women-owned enterprises and initiatives through key ministries of – Agriculture, Women’s Affairs, Water Resources, Energy, Marine and Blue Economy, and the Environment. The letter also called upon President Tinubu to take leadership of and show a strong commitment to the development of national policy frameworks and actions integrating gender equality into climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. HEDA stressed the importance of facilitating the exchange of best practices among states regarding successful initiatives empowering women in food systems and climate mitigation and adaptation. Highlighting the significance of amplifying the voices of smallholder women farmers in decision-making, the letter emphasized women’s indispensable contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural sector while noting challenges such as limited land ownership, inadequate access to finance and technology, and the burden of climate change. The letter stated that the biggest challenge is the lack of adequate inclusion of women in decision-making in agriculture and climate solutions, in spite of women having more “boots on the ground” than men in these critical areas. Additionally, in a separate writing to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, HEDA urged the initiation of a review of existing land tenure laws to identify and address discriminatory practices against women’s land ownership and inheritance, potentially through community sensitization programs. Whilst commending the Governor for appointing a woman as the commissioner for agriculture, HEDA further tasked Mr. Sanwo-Olu to do much more to give smallholder women farmers a voice and a seat at every level of decision-making. HEDA opined that the governor may wish to consider the setting up of a Gender Equality Task Force to develop an action plan to address women’s inclusion in food systems and other critical sectors of the economy. HEDA also sought the partnership of the Lagos State Government with research institutions and NGOs to develop and disseminate gender-appropriate technologies, along with facilitating training programs on their use and maintenance. Furthermore, HEDA reached out to the National Assembly Senate Committee on Climate Change and Ecology and House Committee on Climate Change, as well as the two agriculture committees of both chambers urging them to champion legislative reforms to promote women’s land rights and access to financial resources for climate-smart agriculture. The organization emphasized the need for oversight functions to hold government agencies accountable for implementing policies and programs supporting women in food and climate justice. Letters were also addressed to other stakeholders, including the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Women Affairs, and Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture among others, with appropriate demands. HEDA expressed confidence that these steps would demonstrate strong government support at all levels for the crucial role of women in achieving food security and climate resilience in Nigeria. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with all stakeholders to provide expertise in developing and implementing strategies toward this goal.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) following the release of the regulatory framework governing asset divestment within the oil and gas sector. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the foremost civil society organization, HEDA underscores the importance of upholding due process in asset divestment transactions. “We commend NUPRC’s emphasis on stringent criteria, including technical capacity, financial viability, and adherence to legal obligations, for potential successor entities,” stated Suraju. The unveiling of terms and conditions by NUPRC marks a pivotal step towards ensuring transparency and accountability in the divestment process. Mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), NUPRC’s regulatory oversight aims to uphold operational excellence and efficiency across the upstream value chain. In the backdrop of recent developments, the discourse surrounding asset divestment has gained significant traction within the Nigerian oil and gas landscape. The decisions by International Oil Companies to divest assets in response to operational and legal challenges underscore the dynamic nature of the industry. The commitment demonstrated by NUPRC, as articulated by Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive, during the Nigeria International Energy Summit 2024, underscores the commission’s renewed dedication to promoting fair and transparent practices in asset divestment and host community development. Suraju further added, “Furthermore, we (HEDA) acknowledge and encourage NUPRC’s focus on safeguarding national interests, particularly with regard to decommissioning and abandonment, host community trust funds, and environmental sustainability.” HEDA Resource Centre reaffirms its unwavering commitment to promoting integrity and accountability within the oil and gas sector. The organization encourages continued collaboration between regulatory bodies, industry stakeholders, and civil society organizations to ensure responsible, sustainable, and environment-friendly management of Nigeria’s oil and gas resources.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has written to the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Aliyu SAN and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), urging immediate action to address the neglect and challenges faced by Nigerian citizens in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. In a letter dated March 6, 2024, addressed to the Minister and signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, deep concerns were raised regarding the reported neglect of Nigerian citizens in Ivory Coast by Ambassador Martins Adamu. Adamu allegedly openly admitted to prioritizing diplomatic matters over the welfare of Nigerian citizens. The letter highlighted significant issues such as communication barriers, limited access to essential embassy services, and challenges such as exorbitant prices for NIN registration, human trafficking, and incarceration. HEDA urges the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to conduct a thorough review of the Ambassador’s performance and the alleged neglect of diplomatic responsibilities towards the Nigerian community in Ivory Coast. In the same vein, HEDA also wrote to the Director-General, of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Prof. Fatima Waziri-Azi, calling the agency’s attention to the disturbing reports of Nigerians incarcerated and facing challenges such as sexual trafficking. “We urge NAPTIP to launch a comprehensive investigation into allegations of human trafficking. This investigation should aim to identify and dismantle trafficking networks, rescue victims, and provide them with necessary support and assistance. Additionally, HEDA further charged the Chairman, of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Aliyu SAN to investigate the allegations of extortion and corruption in the National Identification Number (NIN) Registration process being conducted by the Nigerian embassy in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. “We received a call via our toll-free line on a recent happening where an exorbitant fee of (20,000 CFA, approximately N44,000) had been charged to a Nigerian resident by the embassy for NIN registration imposing undue financial burden on the Nigerian community. “We suspect these excessive fees to be a form of corrupt practice, potentially violating relevant Ivorian and Nigerian laws. We therefore urge the ICPC to launch an immediate and thorough investigation into these allegations. HEDA demands that the investigation should examine the fee structure, identify the discrepancies, and determine whether embassy officials are engaging in corrupt practices. The Civil Society organization also further requests appropriate punitive actions against any individuals found to be involved in such activities, as addressing these concerns is crucial to ensuring transparency, accountability, and fair treatment for Nigerians residing in Ivory Coast and everywhere outside the country. HEDA stressed the importance of transparency, open communication, and proactive measures to address the needs and concerns of the Nigerian community in Ivory Coast.

Amidst economic challenges in Nigeria, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has urgently called upon President Bola Tinubu to intervene in resuscitating the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO). Emphasizing the need for maximum productivity, it also advocates for the return of the Director-General’s office of the Institute back to Lagos from Abuja. Established as a key and foremost research institution in Nigeria in 1953, FIIRO is charged with propelling industrialization by leveraging indigenous resources from the country’s 774 local government areas to boost the nation’s economy and upgrade home-grown production techniques to modern ones. In a letter to President Tinubu, signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group highlights FIIRO’s historical achievements from its Lagos headquarters in Oshodi. However, under the recent leadership, the institute has faltered, with infrastructure decay and minimal output. The letter reads in part, “Since the appointment of the current Director-General of FIIRO, Dr. Jummal A. Tutuwa, and the Board, the institute seems to have forgotten its mandate and productivity. The environment of the institute in Lagos appears like an old dumping ground without any meaningful activities to justify decades of investment in the institute. Suraju further noted that the incompetency can be attributed to the fact that the Director-General’s domiciliation in Abuja and lack of deserving interest in the management and operation of the institute. This has resulted in the decay of infrastructure and zero output from the institute in the last years. However, HEDA called on the President to give necessary directives to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji to resuscitate the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), to ensure its maximum output and productivity. “This should include relocation of the Director-General and other important department from Abuja back to Lagos to save cost and increase efficiency, and investigation into the reason for the current redundant state of the institute. HEDA urged the immediate intervention of President Tinubu, noting that the country is currently experiencing a high inflation rate due to over-reliance on foreign exchange and depleting foreign reserves, and this is the best time for Nigeria’s economic development needs FIIRO to work optimally. The civil group expressed optimism in its request to President Tinubu, adding that it looks forward to the resuscitation of FIIRO and more importantly, Nigeria taking its rightful place of self-sufficiency and non-reliance on other nations in research and industrialization.