The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), a leading civil society organization, has issued a challenge to the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO) regarding its recent claims, demanding transparency and evidence to substantiate several assertions of the institute. It is noteworthy that HEDA recently appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in revitalizing the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO). The organization advocated for the return of the Institute’s Director-General’s office back to Lagos from Abuja, emphasizing the imperative of maximizing productivity through effective leadership presence and focus. In a letter addressed to President Tinubu, HEDA expressed grave concern over the apparent lack of funding, and attention to the management and operation of the institute, resulting in infrastructure decay and below-average outputs in recent years. A statement signed by HEDA’s Communication Officer, Nurudeen Salako, emphasized, “The recent statement issued by the Federal Institute of Industrial Research, Oshodi (FIIRO), regarding the position of the Human and Environmental Development Agency (HEDA Resource Centre), has captured our attention. While FIIRO’s claims of iconic contributions to Nigeria’s economic development are bold, HEDA demands transparency and evidence to substantiate such assertions.” The statement continued to highlight the concern over FIIRO’s dismissal of Mr. Suraju’s remarks without addressing their substance. HEDA challenged FIIRO’s management to provide concrete evidence of their claimed feats and contributions towards industrialization. Nigerians and other stakeholders are living witnesses and can judge between the concerns of HEDA and the claims of the Institute’s leadership. Furthermore, HEDA emphasized the institute’s historical tendency to conceal the truth and mislead the public, citing the case of Dr. Chima Igwe, the former acting Director-General of the institute. “FIIRO’s claims of numerous projects and multi-task training leading to awards and commendations must be supported with specific examples, outcomes, and verifiable data. Mere assertions of engagement in research activities and ongoing renovation works are insufficient without demonstrating tangible results and impacts on socio-economic development.” The civil group urged FIIRO to desist from its deceit, concentrate on its core mandate, and allow the president to accord it deserved attention and funding. In case where the institute insist it is operating at optimum capacity, we challenge it to provide evidence of investor engagements and the outcomes in terms of actual investments and industrial developments. Additionally, transparency in the criteria and judging process for awards was stressed as crucial to lend credibility to FIIRO’s claims. In conclusion, HEDA reiterated its commitment to advocating for accountability and transparency in all sectors of Nigerian society. The organization called upon FIIRO to embrace transparency, address past concerns, and provide itself with 21st-century global relevance to restore the confidence of stakeholders and the public.

Looking different at every occasion might just be one technique Suraju, the Chairman of Nigeria’s most remarkable anti-corruption group has devised to delude corrupt actors who once made an attempt to eliminate him. He was calm and unruffled. He sat on the high table with the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC), Mr Olanipekun Olukoyode. Hon. Justice Latifat Okunnu and Prof Adele Jinadu sat close to him. For many of his old friends, it was difficult to recognize Olanrewaju Suraju. He had grown beards. He wore an unusual dress that would make it difficult to identify him unless at close scrutiny. Looking different at every occasion might just be one technique Suraju, the Chairman of Nigeria’s most remarkable anti-corruption group has devised to delude corrupt actors who once made an attempt to eliminate him. For instance, in 2022 at midnight, armed men stormed his house. They did not come to steal but took away valuables, perhaps as a decoy. The deal, it appeared, was to kill or at least warn him that corruption has the means and ways to fight back, anywhere, anyhow, and anytime. The storming of his house was with precision: the time, the break-in, the stealth, the gadgets employed, and the expertise of the invaders indicated they were professional. There have been several other threats to him, his soulmate, Sulaimon Arigbabu, and the staff who are usually on edge at the close of work each day for constant fear of being trailed. This has not deterred the Human and Environmental Development Agenda, (HEDA Resource Centre) in the vigorous pursuit of the Nigerian cruel but powerful sleaze network. The travails of the group, for 20 years now, clearly show that the fight against corruption in Nigeria is like a fight with a lion right in its den. The consequences are life-threatening. Fighting corruption in Nigeria is like walking barefoot on a rope adorned with blade edges. This is why it is remarkable that for 20 years, a Nigerian organisation HEDA Resource Centre has been confronting the lion in its den. At the anniversary held in Lagos this week, which I attended, the EFCC Chairman lamented the vicious hearts of Nigerian cartel of powerful rogues. He said after he assumed office, he suddenly developed strands of grey hairs in months. He sometimes leaves his office at 1 am in the morning, yet goes home with unfinished files. He narrated one incident recently, when on the last day of the previous year, billions of naira were being illicitly transferred by politically exposed persons. He watched the illegal transfers on his security screen forcing him to step aside from the New Year praise and worship night to take decisive action against the complicit bank accounts. They were cronies of Government ministries moving illegal cash not spent during the previous year. If there is a major problem hunting Nigeria, it is the audacity of corruption in high and low places. In the last half a century, experts think funds stolen from Nigeria are enough to build a new, prosperous country. Corruption has become the monster that rules public and private services. Many politicians in Nigeria see the theft of public funds as habitual. Budgets have become mere yearly rituals. Professor Jinadu at the event said in many instances, the motivating factor for public service seems to be access to public wealth. Fronts are created to launder public money through exaggerated contracts, over-invoicing, outright stealing of funds to budget manipulation, and kickbacks. There is institutionalized corruption. This comes in the form of bogus self-awarded salaries, perks, privileges, constituency allowances, and legally protected sleaze. Apart from the corrupt practices of highly placed people, artisans, and professionals wear the dirty garb of graft making the cancerous plaque the addiction of the rich and poor. In his remarks, Olukoyode regretted that corruption is defended viciously by its practitioners, local and international capons, powerful people, and rulers of darkness who do everything possible to sustain the rot. It is this hegemon that HEDA Resource Centre decided, for the past twenty years to confront with all its strength. The EFCC Chairman described HEDA Resource Centre as one of the most ‘prolific’ anti-corruption civil society organisations in Nigeria.Led by a formidable team of men and women, with two icons, Olanrewaju Suraju and Sulaimon Arigbabu at the captain’s seat, the Centre has continued to strike the sky like a comet that awes politically exposed persons. One of the most remarkable corruption cases exposed by HEDA Resource Centre was the Malabu oil scam. It involved the transfer of about $1.1billion dollars by two Nigerian oil giants through Nigerian government officials to the account of a former Minister of Petroleum. About half of the fund went into the account of another Nigerian individual who owns an oil company. The crook fronted for many government officials under the Government of Mr Goodluck Jonathan who ruled Nigeria for six years. When HEDA Resource Centre launched this campaign in 2016, every effort including espionage, threat to life, sending armed agents to the office, phone bugs, spying, and trailing of its workers at the anti-corruption institution was made to hack down, blackmail or intimidate the group. The scam was linked to OPL-245. In the face of poisoned arrows fired at the organisation’s officials at the homefront, international anti-corruption groups, RE: Common, Corner House, and Global Witness rose in defense of HEDA Resource Centre and its team as the case took center stage in Italy and Holland where for the first time, the governments of those countries saw the rare determination of a Nigerian anti-corruption group that risked everything including their lives for a transparent country where the Federal Government was found wanting and even complicit. The Malabu case saw at least some $190m paid to the account of the former Nigerian oil Minister frozen by a London Court. Local and international campaigns of the group are deafening. HEDA was at the United Kingdom Parliament to press against aiding corruption by the international

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Lagos State Government for its recent prohibition of single-use plastics and styrofoam plates within the state. HEDA therefore, encourage other states and the Federal government to follow suit, emphasizing the importance of collective adoption to address the nationwide environmental issues. HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, lauded Lagos for the decisive action, stating that such a decision should have been implemented earlier. Notably, HEDA had advocated for the ban during the 2023 World Environmental Day under the theme “Beat Plastic Pollution,” underscoring the environmental harm caused by single-use styrofoam plates and similar utensils. “We applaud Lagos for leading the charge in tackling the problem of single-use plastics, particularly styrofoam plates. We hope this move by Lagos will inspire and guide other states to implement similar bans. Since Lagos contributes significantly to plastic waste generation, it’s crucial for other states to follow suit to realize the full benefits of this policy,” stated Arigbabu. Arigbabu emphasized that since Lagos receives water drainage from surrounding areas, it’s imperative for neighboring states to also ban single-use plastics to prevent the influx of plastic waste into Lagos. Environmental degradation knows no boundaries, hence a nationwide approach is essential. Concerning effective implementation, Arigbabu emphasizes the importance of clarity in policy content and enforcement modalities. He urges inclusive involvement of stakeholders, including local governments, residents’ associations, market associations, plastic manufacturers, waste management entities, NGOs, and the media. Arigbabu advocates for a moratorium to facilitate dialogue and proper handling of existing plastic stock. Moreover, Arigbabu stresses the significance of public education to ensure the policy’s success. He recommends substantial investment in enlightening the public and garnering their support, as the success of the ban hinges on widespread awareness and compliance. HEDA encourages Lagos to collaborate with neighboring states, such as Ogun and Oyo, and proposes a concerted effort to clean up existing plastic waste. Arigbabu urges the Federal Government to support Lagos by providing necessary assistance and incentives. He advocates for the Federal Government to set a national date for adopting the policy, accompanied by substantial investment in behavioral change initiatives nationwide. Lastly, Arigbabu calls on Nigeria to use its influence in Africa and globally to champion the fight against single-use plastic. He suggests leveraging existing policies like extended producer pay principles to address plastic pollution at a broader scale.

The Human Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), a leading Civil Society Organisation  in Nigeria, has strongly condemned the actions of the Nigerian Army for intimidation and land encroachment against the indigenous residents of Ebute-Afuye in Epe, Lagos. The organization has called upon the Federal Government and the Lagos State government to intervene and seek justice for the Ebute Afuye community residents. In a statement signed by the HEDA Resource Centre, revealed that the Nigeria Army’s 81 Base Ordinance Corp had commenced the construction of a perimeter fence, posing a grave threat to the existence of the Ebute-Afuye Community. This development not only endangers the livelihoods of the residents but also undermines various human development projects implemented by governments and development partners in the area, including efforts by HEDA Resource Centre. “About a month ago, HEDA Resource Centre was approached by the indigenous people of Ebute-Afuye Community concerning a distressing situation. It came to our attention that the Nigeria Army 81 Base Ordinance Corp had initiated the construction of a perimeter fence that poses a severe threat to the existence of these communities. This fence not only jeopardizes the livelihoods of the residents but also undermines various human development projects implemented by governments and development partners including HEDA Resource Centre to support the communities.” The statement reads. “In response to this urgent matter, HEDA Resource Centre conducted thorough investigations to ascertain the facts surrounding the situation. Our participant observation findings revealed that the Nigerian Army is constructing a wall to relocate its perimeter fence, thereby expanding its land at the expense of the indigenous people of Ebute Afuye community. This expansion entails shifting the known boundary by over 200 meters closer to the lagoon shore at Ebute-Afuye, effectively encroaching upon the homes and livelihoods of many community members.” HEDA Resource Centre sighted the acquisition notice No. 1111 of 16th July 1970, wherein the then Oloja of Epe, late Oba David Ajayi Fesogbade II, and his chiefs ceded a total of 71.74 acres of land to the Nigerian Army in the community for an agreed sum. However, while the military barracks have coexisted alongside the indigenous peoples of Ebute Afuye, and other communities, the recent actions of the Nigerian Army represent a clear violation of the rights and interests of the affected communities. On 30th January 2024, HEDA Resource Centre addressed letters to key stakeholders including the President Bola Tinubu, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja (Chief of Army Staff), Senate President, Godwill Akpabio; Mr Nuhu Ribadu (NSA), Speaker, House of Representative, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass; Senator Tokunbo Abiru (Rep Lagos east senatorial zone) Hon. Wale Raji (Rep Epe federal constituency 1) Governor Babajide Sanyo-Olu, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa (Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly), Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN (Attorney General of Lagos), Mr Anthony Ojukwu SAN (Executive Secretary, Nigeria Human Rights Commission), among others. These letters not only brought attention to the land grab and displacement of Ebute-Afuye Community but also urged swift intervention by the Presidency, Nigeria Army and Lagos State Government to halt the construction and ensure the removal of the invasive wall. Such actions are necessary to allow residents and fish farmers to continue their livelihood activities without fear or intimidation by armed military personnel. “Furthermore, we were duly informed by the affected people, that on Tuesday, 6th February 2024, the Nigerian Army held a meeting with them during which they instructed residents to submit passport photographs and personal information for access passes. The Nigerian Army justified its actions by citing orders from higher authorities. However, it is evident that the Army’s encroachment on lands beyond the agreed boundaries is unwarranted and detrimental to the well-being of the affected communities.” Meanwhile, HEDA Resource Centre condemns these unjust actions by the Nigerian Army and calls for immediate and decisive measures to rectify the situation. HEDA  urge the Federal Government and Lagos State Government and all relevant authorities to prioritize the rights and welfare of the indigenous people of Ebute-Afuye Community and to uphold principles of accountability, transparency, and environmental justice.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is thrilled to announce plans for a week-long celebration commemorating its 20th Anniversary and 23 years of continuous impact in promoting good governance, environmental sustainability, and social justice. Established in November 2001 and officially incorporated by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) on 24th February, 2004. HEDA has remained steadfast in its commitment to driving positive change in Nigeria and beyond. According to the leading civil society organization’s Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, the celebration will feature a series of engaging events designed to reflect on past achievements, strengthen partnerships, and chart a course for the future. “The celebration will kick off with a Media Leaders Interactive Session and Dinner on Sunday, February 18th, 2024. This event will bring together prominent figures from the media industry and civil society organizations (CSOs) to reaffirm  commitment to driving positive change and promoting accountability in our society.” He said. Following the interactive session, HEDA Resource Centre will organize a visitation to the Ikoyi Maximum Prison on Tuesday, February 20th, 2024, as part of its commitment to advocating for prison reform, social justice and support indigent inmates towards their bail conditions. On Thursday, February 22nd, 2024, HEDA will host a Cocktail Meet and Greet and Anti-corruption Course Unveiling in collaboration with the University of Lagos Consult, highlighting the organization’s dedication to training Nigerians on illicit assets tracing, Anti-corruption mechanisms and good governance. The week-long celebration will continue with a Jummat Service Prayer on Friday, February 23rd, 2024, to express gratitude to the Almighty for the organization’s achievements and seek blessings for future endeavors. The pinnacle of the celebration will be the 20th Anniversary Lecture on Saturday, February 24th, 2024, featuring distinguished speakers and thought leaders reflecting on two decades of impact and discussing strategies for addressing pressing societal challenges, to be addressed by the EFCC Chairman, Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede. Finally, on Sunday, February 25th, 2024, HEDA Resource Centre will hold a Church Thanksgiving service to express gratitude for the organization’s journey and the support of its partners and stakeholders. Mr. Suraju expressed his excitement about the upcoming festivities, stating, “Our 20th Anniversary is a testament to the dedication and perseverance of everyone who has contributed to HEDA’s mission over the past two decades. We look forward to celebrating our achievements and renewing our commitment to creating a better, more just society.” Members of the media, civil society organizations, government officials, partners,  academia, and the public are invited to join HEDA Resource Centre in celebrating this significant milestone. The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is a leading civil society organization dedicated to promoting good governance, environmental sustainability, and social justice in Nigeria. Since its establishment in November 2001, HEDA has been at the forefront of advocacy efforts to hold government officials and institutions accountable and advance the rights of marginalized communities.