The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), an NGO, in collaboration with the Association of Small Scale Agro Producers in Nigeria (ASSAPIN) has sensitized climate frontline communities on flood in Nasarawa State. Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary, HEDA Resource Centre said this in Doma Local Government Area of the state. According to him, flood outreach awareness became necessary, given that most far and hard-to-reach communities lack access to the right information about flood outlook and weather forecast to be able to prepare for the flood. Arigbabu explained that when people have access to the right information and knowledge about their circumstances, they can help themselves better and avert disaster that comes with heavy rain and dry spells. He added, ‘We are currently working on flood awareness and sensitization for the climate frontline community, we have been going to several states in the country and we still have many more to go. “In these states, we are learning from the people about their experiences as regards flooding and other climate incidences like drought, and dry spells among others. For instance, did they get to know there would be a flood, did they get the information on time, how did they get the information and how did they prepare themselves, their challenges, and what government agencies are responding to them,” he said. Arigbabu further noted that the information and data collected aimed to help relevant Government Agencies and NGOs see the gap and plan better to be more effective in their work. “Some of these communities are not even aware of the flood outlook released by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), is not as if the information is not available, the gap is in the dissemination. Access to improved seeds that can help reduce their loss is difficult, so, is about access, availability, and affordability of the things they need,” he emphasized. Mr Jonathan Joshua, ASSAPIN National President, said the benefiting communities were selected based on the weather forecast and flood outlook by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency and Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency. “The flood risks awareness is kind of information we are giving to the communities, especially riverine communities to help them prepared, if they don’t prepare the flood will take them unaware, and they will lose more. He listed the benefiting communities to include; Rukubi, Akpanaja, Odori, Agyema, Ijiwo Okpatta, Ruti, and Iwashi communities, all in Doma Local Government Area of Nasarawa state. Godwin Zauka and Mustapha Okaku, participants, while thanking the organizers said it was the first time to receive sensitization on flooding, preparation, and safety tips to avert loss. They said the flood has been a recurring event in their communities that led to the loss of their farm produce and property yearly. The ‘Flood Awareness and sensitization’ for climate frontline communities, which HEDA Resource Centre is implementing in Nasarawa state is part of the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) project, with support from Oxfam in Nigeria.

As flooding continues to threaten communities across Nigeria, HEDA Resource Centre has intensified its efforts to mitigate the impact on farming communities, particularly in Bauchi and Benue States. In collaboration with local partners and funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands under the African Activists for Climate Justice Project, HEDA launched a flood sensitisation and awareness campaign across the country to educate and empower small-holder farmers on climate change impacts and flood preparedness. In Bauchi State, communities such as Walia, Melandige, and Sakuwa in Itas Gadau LGA were visited. During a sensitization session, Hajia Aminat Bala Jubril, Director , Association of Small-Scale Agro Producers in Nigeria, ASSAPIN, and a partner with HEDA,  addressed farmers on strategies to mitigate flood risks. She highlighted the importance of investing in flood-resistant rice seeds and advised farmers to incorporate these improved seeds into their future budgets to protect their crops. Hajia Aminat also urged farmers to stay informed through weather updates from NiMET, which has predicted potential flooding in the area between April and October 2024. Hajia Fatima, a community leader and farmer spoke on behalf of the local farmers sharingb their experiences with flood, and called on governments and corporate organisations to come to their aid by building long-term infrastructure that can withstand the flood, as well as dredging of the river, which had previously reduced the impact flood risks in the region. Similarly, in Benue State, HEDA engaged with the communities of Agasha, Adaka, Ajaha and Abatse of the Guma and Makurdi local government areas. The campaign focused on early warning systems and flood-resistant farming techniques. Farmers like Racheal Uzor shared their struggles with flooding, explaining how they had to navigate farming in flood-prone areas, often losing their crops despite flood warnings. She also appealed to the government for clean water access through boreholes, as their water sources have been severely affected by flooding. Victor Osimo, another farmer in Benue, highlighted the poor drainage systems and the impact of floods on their farmlands. He called for government intervention to address issues like agro-chemical contamination and poor infrastructure, which exacerbate their vulnerability to flood impact. HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, emphasized the importance of adopting modern, climate-resilient farming techniques to mitigate agricultural losses. He encouraged farmers to remain vigilant and use climate data to inform their planting decisions.He further explained that the objective behind this campaign, is to equip climate frontline communities, especially farmers with the right information and knowledge that will empower them to help themselves and reduce their climate related risks. Meanwhile, HEDA has visited five other states (Adamawa, Kwara, Niger, Kogi, and Nasarawa) in the ongoing campaigns and in both states aim to equip communities with the knowledge and tools necessary to reduce the impacts of climate-related disasters. As the October-November flood period approaches, interventions, such as HEDA’s are crucial for improving the resilience of vulnerable communities across the country, in order to ensure that lives, livelihoods, and food security are better protected.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) congratulates the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on her confirmation as the head of the nation’s judicial arm of government, and charged the CJN with repositioning the administration of justice in the country. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group congratulated the Chief Justice and expressed optimism about her ability to lead much-needed reforms in the judicial sector. HEDA emphasized the judiciary’s critical role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring the protection of citizens’ rights. The organization called on the new CJN to take bold and decisive steps toward reforming the judicial system, particularly in addressing issues related to transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in the administration of justice. “The Nigerian judiciary plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s democratic process, and the expectations from citizens are high. We encourage the new Chief Justice to prioritize reforms that will restore public confidence and ensure that the judiciary operates with independence and accountability,” he said. According to Suraju, HEDA also pledges its support for the demanding task ahead for the CJN, offering collaboration to reposition the judiciary. The civil society organization reaffirmed its commitment to promoting accountability and good governance, stressing the importance of a fair and impartial judiciary in fighting corruption and human rights abuses. “Under the leadership of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, we believe that the judiciary has the potential to become a stronger, more reliable institution for all Nigerians,” Suraju added. As the new Chief Justice assumes office, HEDA joins other civil society organizations and well meaning Nigerians in urging for a judiciary that reflects integrity and commitment to justice.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), a leading anti-corruption organization and human rights advocacy group has issued a strong call to the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun and the Director-General of the Department of State Security (DSS), Mr. Adeola Ajayi, demanding the immediate enforcement of a subsisting court order concerning the former governor of Kogi State, Mr. Yahaya Bello. In a letter signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, addressed to the security chiefs, HEDA expressed deep concern over the ongoing disregard for the rule of law. Despite valid court orders from both a Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal mandating Mr. Bello’s arrest and his presentation for trial, he continues to evade justice with alleged protection from the Nigeria Police Force and the DSS. In April 2024, a Federal High Court Judge ordered Mr. Bello’s arrest. This order was reaffirmed by the Court of Appeal in August 2024, directing him to present himself for trial. However, Mr. Bello has allegedly been shielded from arrest by law enforcement agencies responsible for upholding the law. According to Suraju, HEDA is particularly concerned over reports of confrontations between the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other law enforcement agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and DSS, each time the EFCC attempted to arrest Mr. Bello. “HEDA strongly condemns this apparent protection of a fugitive and demands that the Nigeria Police Force and DSS immediately stop obstructing justice. We call for the immediate arrest of Mr. Yahaya Bello so that he can face the charges against him in court. “The continued defiance of court orders not only undermines the integrity of our judiciary but also erodes public trust in our law enforcement institutions. The Nigeria Police Force and DSS must fulfill their constitutional duties and ensure that justice prevails, and stop presenting the government as lacking in leadership and coordination,” Suraju added. HEDA expects both the Nigeria Police Force and the DSS to act swiftly and in accordance with the law they swore to defend.

HEDA Resource Centre, in partnership with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), held an engaging X-Space session to sensitize Nigerians on the importance of education and collaboration as key tools to fight corruption, with Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, Director of Public Affairs at EFCC, as the guest speaker. The discussion centered on the topic, “Unlocking the Power of Education and Collaboration to Combat Corruption in Nigeria.” Mr. Uwujaren emphasized the critical role education plays in the fight against corruption, particularly in a society where many remain unaware of the impact of corrupt practices on national development. He noted that corruption is often misunderstood by the public, with many failing to grasp the far-reaching consequences of the misappropriation of public funds. “At the EFCC, we have realized from over two decades of work that enforcing the law is not enough. We need to engage all stakeholders, educate them on how corruption impacts lives, and the implications of not combating it,” Uwujaren stated. In addition to educating the public, Uwujaren highlighted the EFCC’s use of various media platforms, including print, broadcast, and social media, to raise awareness about corruption. He cited the establishment of the EFCC Radio Station, 97.3 FM in Abuja as a significant step toward creating daily conversations around anti-corruption efforts, allowing Nigerians to engage with the commission directly and offer feedback. He further noted the importance of collaboration with civil society organizations (CSOs), praising HEDA Resource Centre for its advocacy in the accountability space. However, Uwujaren also expressed concern about some CSOs that have derailed from their mission, focusing instead on personal gain rather than the collective good of the nation. The EFCC’s approach to tackling cybercrime was also a key point in the discussion. Uwujaren mentioned that the commission is working on rehabilitation programs to redirect the talents of young cybercriminals into legitimate, beneficial ventures, thereby transforming them from cybercriminals into cyber experts who contribute positively to society. Uwujaren’s address concluded with a call for Nigerians to join the fight against corruption, stressing that continuous education and collective action are essential to eradicating the scourge of corruption and ensuring a better future for the country.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Nigeria’s leading anti-corruption and human rights organization, has formally petitioned the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun for alleged fraudulent misrepresentation of a private rice farm as a World Bank-assisted project under the Ogun State Government. HEDA petition, signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, follows a report published by Peoples Gazette on September 12, 2024, revealing that Governor Abiodun falsely claimed ownership of a rice farm belonging to Mr. Bello Zabarmawa, a Special Adviser to the Governor of Kebbi State. The rice farm, located in Ogun State, had been leased by Mr. Zabarmawa, who registered it under “Young Service Grow” using “Alubarika Farms.” He had personally invested N6 million to lease 220 hectares of land and provided interest-free loans to about 200 farmers for rice cultivation. The Ogun State government had supported the project by covering 50% of the cost for clearing the land and contributing to fertilizer costs. According to Mr. Zabarmawa, when the rice was ready for harvest, Governor Abiodun visited the farm and falsely paraded it as a solely Ogun State Government project, reportedly supported by the World Bank. This alleged misinformation raises concerns about potential attempts to misappropriate World Bank funds allocated for agricultural development in Ogun State. Meanwhile, HEDA is deeply concerned by the governor’s actions, which appear to reflect a broader trend of political leaders exploiting public resources for personal gain. The anti-corruption organization has further urged the EFCC to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, including the alleged misrepresentation and potential diversion of funds meant for public agricultural projects. If found culpable, HEDA insists that Governor Abiodun and any other individuals involved must be held accountable and prosecuted in accordance with the law. According to Suraju, “Nigeria has endured too many years of poor governance and corruption at the hands of leaders who prioritize personal enrichment over the welfare of citizens. HEDA remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance across all levels of government, and it calls on the EFCC to act swiftly in addressing this serious issue.” “HEDA acknowledges the efforts of the EFCC in the ongoing fight against corruption and looks forward to the findings of this investigation.” Suraju concluded.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), a leading civil society organization committed to promoting human rights, democracy, and good governance, has strongly condemns the Department of State Services’ (DSS) reported directive to arrest activist Omoyele Sowore, upon his return to Nigeria. This action, as revealed by a leaked DSS memo, constitutes a brazen violation of Sowore’s constitutional rights to freedom of expression, movement, and peaceful assembly. Recall that the leaked memo, obtained by SaharaReporters, indicates that the new DSS Director General, Adeola Ajayi, has placed Sowore on a security watchlist for his role in recent #EndBadGovernance protests. The directive reportedly calls for Sowore’s arrest upon arrival in Nigeria, raising serious concerns about the arbitrary use of state security apparatus to suppress dissent and stifle activism. HEDA Resource Centre in a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, unequivocally condemns any attempt to intimidate or harass activists and citizens who are exercising their legitimate rights to protest and call for accountability in governance. According to Suraju, the planned arrest or placement on security watchlist of Mr. Sowore, a known critic of government policies and a vocal advocate for social justice, without any prior invitation would represent a direct attack on democratic principles and the civic space in Nigeria. The statement reads, “We remind the DSS and other security agencies that Nigeria’s Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech, assembly, and movement, and any action that undermines these fundamental rights is unlawful and unacceptable. The use of state power to silence critics is a dangerous venture that threatens Nigeria’s democracy and undermines public confidence in the government and country’s institutions.” “We call on the DSS to immediately withdraw any directives targeting Omoyele Sowore and to refrain from using security agencies as tools for political repression. Rather than focusing on arresting peaceful protesters, the DSS should channel its resources towards addressing the rising insecurity that has plagued the nation and the safety and security of all Nigerians.” Suraju further urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to demonstrate respect for human rights and uphold the rule of law by ensuring that security agencies act within the bounds of their legal mandate. Any form of unlawful arrest or detention will only serve to escalate tensions and undermine efforts to build a more just and equitable society. In conclusion, we stand in solidarity with Omoyele Sowore and all Nigerian citizens who continue to speak truth to power in the face of intimidation. HEDA remains committed to defending the rights of all individuals to express their views freely and peacefully without fear of persecution.

In a bid to strengthen disaster risk management and flood preparedness, the HEDA Resource Centre and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) met on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, to discuss potential collaboration. The HEDA team led by its Executive Secretary, Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu, and Program Officer, Environmental Justice and Sustainable Development, Akinmayowa Shobo, were received at NEMA’s headquarters in Abuja. Mr. Arigbabu at the strategic meeting, outlined HEDA’s ongoing efforts in disaster risk reduction, particularly in hard-to-reach communities. Arigbabu emphasized partnering with NEMA to enhance emergency preparedness, mitigation, and response across Nigeria. A key outcome of the meeting was NEMA’s invitation for HEDA to participate in their upcoming stakeholders’ meeting. This forum, held after NEMA’s annual report release, provides a platform for discussing climate-related disaster predictions from agencies such as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA). HEDA was encouraged to use this opportunity to deepen its engagement with other disaster management stakeholders. The discussion also highlighted the need for comprehensive data validation related to flood awareness and sensitization in high-risk communities. The meeting underscored the importance of understanding the impact of flooding on community members and leveraging validated data to garner further support for at-risk populations. The organisation further presented an overview of its previous work, including its use of NiMet’s Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) and NIHSA’s flood outlook reports. The team shared insights into their efforts to measure the effectiveness of sensitization activities, illustrating how data-driven approaches have informed community-level interventions. NEMA provided valuable insights into its operational framework, including its collaboration with State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs). This information is crucial for HEDA as it aims to expand its outreach and strengthen partnerships with state-level disaster management bodies. The deliberation also addressed sustainability concerns, with HEDA explaining its strategy for maintaining projects beyond initial funding through partnerships and community engagement. NEMA acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence in HEDA’s approach, especially its focus on collaboration and community involvement. Both organizations agreed on the need for a follow-up meeting to explore a potential Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). NEMA reaffirmed its commitment to inviting HEDA to their stakeholders’ meeting and provided a strategy document and annual report to align future activities. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to improving coordination and collaboration in disaster management efforts across Nigeria.

To address the increasing impact of disasters and flooding in Nigeria, HEDA Resource Centre and the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) are exploring a strategic partnership aimed at improving disaster risk management and flood preparedness across the nation. The meeting, held in Abuja, featured discussions between the HEDA team, led by Executive Secretary Mr. Sulaimon Arigbabu and Program Officer for Environmental Justice and Sustainable Development, Akinmayowa Shobo, and NIHSA representatives Engineer Aliyu Mohammed and Taiwo Bamgbose. At the pivotal meeting, Mr. Arigbabu outlined HEDA’s ongoing work in environmental justice and sustainable development, emphasizing the need to strengthen collaborations with key government agencies to tackle climate change challenges. The discussion highlighted HEDA’s longstanding relationship with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) and the necessity of expanding these partnerships to address issues impacting frontline communities and smallholder farmers. Engineer Aliyu Mohammed expressed interest in formalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between HEDA and NIHSA. The proposed MoU would leverage NIHSA’s hydrological expertise alongside HEDA’s grassroots outreach to improve data sharing, capacity building, and public awareness. This collaboration aims to enhance disaster risk reduction efforts and optimize the use of existing data from various sources, including NGOs and government agencies. A significant portion of the meeting focused on developing a post-flooding map to aid recovery and planning efforts. Discussions also highlighted the need to improve the timeliness and effectiveness of early warning systems. HEDA raised concerns that NIHSA’s flood warnings are often not acted upon promptly, underscoring the necessity for delivering actionable information well in advance of flooding events. Both parties acknowledged the potential of existing data from various organizations and committed to a coordinated approach to utilize this information effectively. HEDA pledged to share data collected through its outreach activities, including surveys and Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, with NIHSA. In response to concerns about communication strategies, Mr. Arigbabu noted that HEDA uses local languages to ensure critical information reaches affected communities in an accessible and culturally appropriate manner. NIHSA agreed to support HEDA’s outreach efforts by providing sensitization materials and discussed the possibility of NIHSA personnel participating in HEDA’s radio programs to enhance messaging on flood risk and preparedness. The meeting concluded with an agreement to schedule a follow-up meeting with NIHSA’s Director-General to formalize the proposed MoU. HEDA also invited NIHSA to participate in a high-level consultation on disaster risk management for smallholder farmers and vulnerable communities, held on August 28, 2024, alongside the launch of two reports from HEDA’s 2023 programmatic and research efforts.