Continuing our commitment to fostering dialogue on critical issues, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) is delighted to announce the May edition of our monthly advocacy series, “Chatting with HEDA,” on X Space. This month, we shift our focus to the dynamic landscape of Nigeria’s agricultural system with the esteemed agribusiness strategist, Africafarmer Mogaji. The virtual program is scheduled for Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at 3:00 PM on HEDA X Space. Join us for an enlightening discussion titled “Charting the Path of Innovation and Inclusion for Nigeria’s Agricultural System,” as we delve into strategies to drive innovation and foster inclusivity within the agricultural sector. Africafarmer Mogaji, a second-generation agribusiness strategist and serial farmer, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. His expertise will provide attendees with valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges and opportunities within Nigeria’s agricultural landscape. The “Chatting with HEDA X Space” series serves as a platform for open dialogue and exchange of ideas on pressing societal issues. This month’s discussion is particularly pertinent as we explore pathways to drive innovation and promote inclusivity in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. We are thrilled to have Africafarmer Mogaji as our guest speaker for this insightful conversation. His expertise will undoubtedly enrich our understanding and inspire meaningful discussions on the future of agriculture in Nigeria. The event is open to the public, and we encourage active participation from attendees. Join us as we engage in constructive dialogue and explore innovative solutions to enhance Nigeria’s agricultural system. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation on innovation and inclusion in Nigeria’s agricultural sector at the upcoming “Chatting with HEDA” X Space event. Together, let’s chart a path towards a more vibrant and inclusive agricultural industry.

A delegation from the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Center) led by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, met with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Civil Society Organizations, and other stakeholders in Bayelsa State at the State office of NHRC, Yenagoa. The focus of the meeting was the environmental and human rights concerns plaguing the region’s oil and gas exploration and divestment prospects of oil companies in the Niger Delta region. Speaking on behalf of the HEDA delegation, the Chairman Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju highlighted the severe environmental damage and human rights violations caused by oil exploration in Bayelsa, particularly criticizing the lack of transparency and accountability from International Oil Companies (IOCs). He criticized International Oil Companies (IOCs) for failing to deliver promised benefits to local communities, leaving behind environmental ruins and social hardships. Suraju emphasized the need for local communities to be included in decision-making processes concerning oil and extraction and divestment. Mr. Suraju, however, called for a fundamental change in the relationship between the oil industry, the government, and the Niger Delta people, while criticizing past officials who failed to represent the communities’ interests in government and public offices. He highlighted past instances of public officials prioritizing personal gains over the well-being of the region, and also questioned the capacity of companies proposed to take over divested assets, citing research conducted by Mr. Nicholas Hildyard of Cornerhouse Research into the profile of some prospective beneficiaries of the divestment plan.

Last week, we had a productive meeting with Sen. Ewhrudjakpo Lawrence, Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, to discuss critical environmental, human rights issues surrounding oil & gas operations in the state. The HEDA delegation was led by the Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, and included Ms. Cecilia Ogwuche, Legal and Program Officer, and Nicholas Hildyard, Executive Director of Cornerhouse Research, a valued partner organization. During the meeting, HEDA commended the Bayelsa State government for its recently published report on oil exploration, a model for increased transparency and accountability across the Niger Delta. HEDA also expressed concerns over the potential negative impacts of divestment by international oil companies (IOCs) without proper environmental cleanup or liability transfer. The team also discussed strategies to ensure IOCs fulfil their obligations and explored collaborative actions with the Bayelsa State government. On his part, the Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo acknowledged the urgency of these issues and highlighted the government’s commitment to working with HEDA to address environmental degradation and human rights violations. We encourage all stakeholders to join us in advocating for a just transition in the Niger Delta that prioritizes environmental well-being and the rights to impacted communities.

Following the commencement of the evaluation of divestment processes of onshore assets by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has emphasized the importance of strict compliance with divestment conditions by divesting parties. These conditions encompass legal requirements, safety standards, environmental considerations, proof of financial means, and host community welfare, among other indicators evaluated by the Commission. In a statement issued by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group underscored the significance of addressing the evolving divestment by oil companies in Nigeria, particularly its impact on the Niger-Delta region and climate change. Suraju emphasized, “Environmental issues associated with decommissioning and abandonment must be remediated in accordance with international best practices, ensuring respect for human rights, compensation, climate change exacerbation, SLCP emissions, and addressing social and economic risks such as oil theft and pipeline vandalism.” It is worth noting that HEDA, in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), recently convened its 35th Anti-corruption Situation Room (ACSR) conference in Port Harcourt. The conference focused on “Enhancing Citizens’ Rights to Sustainable Environment, Economic Development, and Justice through Regulatory Efficiency in Oil and Gas Producing Areas: Proposed Divestment by IOCs in Perspective.” Stakeholders at the conference unanimously agreed that transparency and inclusivity are essential throughout the divestment process, from conception to implementation, particularly concerning affected communities. “Furthermore, there is a pressing need for shared responsibilities and a strengthened network for collective action to promote integrity in the oil and gas sector. It is imperative that divestment initiatives in the oil and gas sector prioritize the free, prior, and informed consent of indigenous oil-producing communities. These communities must be well-versed in the checklist of guidelines to ensure their involvement and empowerment throughout the process.” HEDA also called upon both federal and state governments, as well as local communities, to collaborate in jointly addressing the challenges of corruption in oil-related activities. These challenges range from inadequacies in legal frameworks enforcement and community engagement to inefficient regulation and corporate responsibilities. “By working together, governments, regulatory bodies, NGOSs, and communities can effectively tackle corruption and promote sustainable development in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.” Suraju maintained.

Leading Civil Society Groups in the anti-corruption community, including the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), and Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), committed to anti-corruption and good governance, have strongly condemned the recent action by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun to withdraw police personnel from the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission under whatever guise. This withdrawal, which reportedly follows investigations into multi-billion Naira corruption allegations against the National Chairman of the ruling All-Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, raises serious concerns about the politicization of law enforcement agencies. The withdrawal of approximately 40 policemen providing security and investigative support severely undermines the crucial work of the anti-corruption agency in Kano State and threatens the constitutional requirements of the police’s impartially and independence. A joint statement signed by leaders of the groups, Olanrewaju Suraju, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani and Zikrillahi Ibrahim respectively, said, “It is deeply troubling that law enforcement resources are being redirected away from combating corruption and instead appear to be utilized to obstruct investigations into high-profile individuals and undermine accountability. This action threatens the principles of federalism, transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.” The statement emphasized the need for the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to prioritize the integrity and independence of law enforcement agencies. It urged the IGP to refrain from any actions that could be perceived as politically motivated, emphasizing that the fight against corruption should be free from political interference. The groups commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC) for their commendable response when Dr. Ganduje attempted to manipulate them against the Kano State Anti-Corruption Commission. Considering these concerns, the groups called on the IGP to immediately reinstate police support to the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission. They stressed the importance of ensuring that law enforcement agencies remain impartial and committed to combating corruption in Nigeria. The statement concluded by urging the IGP to embrace professionalism and uphold the principles of justice and accountability in the execution of his duties. Corruption poses a significant threat to the development and progress of our nation, and it is imperative that all stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and governments, work together in a concerted effort to combat the scourge.

In a recent development, The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has submitted a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), urging an investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the contract awarded by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). The petition, addressed to Mr. Olanipekun Olukoyede, the Executive Chairman of EFCC, and signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, outlines concerns over the award of contracts in foreign currency by TETFund, a move deemed illegal under Nigerian law. Specifically, the petition cites the award of contracts totaling N3.8 Billion to Fides Et Ratio Academy and Pole Global Marketing (PGM) for capacity-building courses and learning management systems. According to reports from an online news platform, the contract with Fides Et Ratio Academy was for capacity development training for students and staff of tertiary institutions, while the contract with Pole Global Marketing (PGM) was for capacity development and blackboard implementation. However, the petition alleges that the contracts were not fully executed despite payments being made, with 85% of the contract sum allegedly paid to PGM without evidence of work done. Of particular concern to HEDA Resource Centre is the payment of $5 million to an offshore account for the contract with PGM, a transaction that raises suspicions of illegal movement of foreign currency or potential money laundering. Such actions, the petition asserts, are in direct violation of Section 7 of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (Establishment Etc.) Act, 2011, which governs the management and administration of the Fund. The HEDA Boss further emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the matter and called for the prosecution of individuals implicated in the alleged wrongdoing. He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability in the management of public funds. In light of these concerns, the anti-corruption group has called upon EFCC to conduct a diligent investigation into the improper award of contracts by TETFund and to take appropriate legal action against those found culpable. The organization awaits swift action from EFCC in response to their petition.

Nigeria’s battle against corruption has received a clarion call for judiciary reform from prominent lawyer and human rights activist, Ms. Ayo Obe. Speaking during the April Edition of the HEDA’s Monthly Advocacy Series titled “Chatting with HEDA,” Obe emphasized the crucial need to address shortcomings within the judiciary, particularly focusing on judges. Highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to combating corruption, Obe stressed, “To see improvements in our justice sector and the nation as a whole, we must scrutinize those operating within the system. In the fight against corruption, attention must be given not only to prosecutors but also to judges.” Obe commended President Tinubu for convening a conference on justice reform, citing it as a timely initiative. However, she expressed concerns regarding the prolonged delays and manipulation of the legal system by politically exposed individuals (PEPs) to evade accountability. She pointed out flaws within the legal framework, citing the Administration of Criminal Justice Act designed to expedite trials and minimize technical objections. However, she lamented its ineffective implementation, leading to significant delays in delivering justice. Addressing systemic challenges, Obe emphasized the pivotal role of law enforcement agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police Force (NPL), in expediting trials and enhancing forensic capabilities. She underscored the need for efficient case management, urging for seamless transition of cases between investigating officers to ensure continuity and timely resolution. Regarding the pervasive issue of corruption, Obe highlighted societal conditioning, where corruption is often normalized as a prerequisite for accessing services or justice. She urged for a paradigm shift towards zero tolerance for corruption and emphasized the importance of accentuating the negative consequences to deter corrupt practices. In the face of politicization and impunity surrounding corruption cases, Obe called for an end to immunity and impunity for politically exposed individuals, stressing the need for accountability irrespective of political affiliations. She urged civil society organizations (CSOs) to remain vigilant in demanding justice and accountability, offering support to individuals seeking to challenge corruption despite potential threats or intimidation. Obe’s advocacy underscores the critical need for comprehensive judicial reform and collective efforts to combat corruption effectively in Nigeria.

Representatives from nine oil-producing communities in the Niger Delta region and the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) are pressing for transparency and accountability in the ongoing divestment within the oil and gas industry. The demand arose from a meeting of approximately a hundred groups and communities convened in Port Harcourt last week, where stakeholders vocally called for transparency from both the Nigerian government and the oil corporations involved in the divestment process. The 35th Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR) workshop organized by Nigeria’s leading anti-corruption group, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre, in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and with support from the MacArthur Foundation, the gathering focused on addressing concerns regarding divestment activities in the region. The divestment initiative, which began in 2010, has gained momentum recently, with oil giant Shell Plc agreeing to sell its onshore oil assets to local companies in a deal worth $1.3 billion. This strategic move by Shell aims to distance itself from the challenging onshore operating environment, characterized by sabotage, communal conflicts, oil theft, and concerns over climate change. Participants at the event highlighted the prevalence of corruption and human rights abuses in the oil and gas sector, stressing the imperative need for greater transparency throughout the divestment process. Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, the chairman of HEDA stated that the purpose of the event was to highlight the importance of community roles in human right protection in the issue of oil divestment. He explained that in the consideration of divestment, the oil companies and the federal government must involve all stakeholders in the discuss noting that According to him, “Divestment in the Niger Delta must be done in integrity and fairness without excluding the Community people. The stakeholders have the passion coming from their past experience where the International Oil Companies left the communities without proper information. He expressed sadness about the operations of some International Oil Companies, IOCs operating in Nigerian and the consequences of what most oil bearing communities are going through, therefore called on the public to always be on the watch out to expose any human rights abuses and corruption in any guise that would affect their environment or source of livelihood. In his presentation, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), represented by Dr. Kelechi Ofoegbu, executive commissioner, Corporate Services and Administration, NUPRC, delivered a keynote address focusing on citizens’ rights to a sustainable environment and economic development amid the proposed divestment. He outlined the commission’s conditions for divestment, including legal requirements, safety measures, and community considerations. He maintained that there is a checklist every divestment must follow before government will approve such divestment, which include financial considerations, health and safety among others. However, concerns were raised by Mr. Nicholas Hildyard from The CornerHouse, United Kingdom, regarding the financial strength of participating companies, potential breaches of NUPRC rules, and inadequate environmental assessments conducted by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC). Mrs. Agharese Arase, Director of the National Human Rights Institute (NHRI), emphasized the importance of community involvement in advancing human rights agendas, advocating for the inclusion of women and children in addressing these issues. Dr. Emem Bridget, representing Ketekbache, highlighted the historical and ongoing exploitation faced by Niger Delta communities, underscoring the adverse effects of pollution on health, livelihoods, and traditional practices. Indigenous community leaders expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of access to information, constructive engagements, and environmental impact assessments in the divestment process. They demanded full disclosure, consultation with affected communities, and adherence to international conventions on indigenous rights and environmental protection. The gathering concluded with a resolution urging comprehensive environmental assessments, inclusive decision-making processes, and adherence to international conventions in the ongoing divestment in the Niger Delta region. Participants commended the efforts of HEDA and the MacArthur Foundation in spearheading anti-corruption initiatives in Nigeria.

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has strongly condemned the evasion of arrest by former Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, amidst serious allegations of money laundering amounting to N80 billion, breach of public trust, and related offenses reported by the Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the provocation undertaken by the current Governor of Kogi State, Mr. Ododo. This condemnation follows reports of Governor Ododo of Kogi State allegedly shielding and aiding Mr. Bello to evade arrest at his Abuja residence, purportedly under the guise of personal immunity granted the governor by the Constitution. The action of Governor Ododo is criminal and stands condemned. The constitutional immunity of a governor is not transferable, but we commend the EFCC for its professionalism in the face of provocation from the Kogi Governor. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, HEDA expressed deep concern over Mr. Bello’s actions, which set a dangerous precedent and undermine the rule of law. The anti-corruption group emphasized the necessity for all individuals, regardless of their status, to be subject to rule of law and held accountable for any alleged wrongdoing. “We commend the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, for urging the former Governor to surrender himself to the EFCC, emphasizing the importance of respecting authority and the power of agencies like the EFCC to carry out their duties professionally and without interference,” Suraju stated. “Despite reported provocations by Governor Ododo’s security team and protesters, the EFCC has demonstrated commendable professionalism in upholding the law and pursuing justice without escalation into chaos. HEDA emphasized the need for all public officials to support and uphold law-abiding behavior in the discharge of their duties and exercise of power. Furthermore, HEDA called upon the judiciary to carefully consider the issuance of restraining orders that could potentially shield politically exposed persons evading justice. The organization stressed the importance of transparent and impartial legal processes to ensure that justice is served without undue influence or obstruction. HEDA Resource Centre urged relevant authorities to swiftly address this alarming situation and uphold the principles of accountability and the rule of law. EFCC is further charged to continue in its strive to hold all public officers to highest account, irrespective of their post, connections, affiliation and connection.