CategoriesCompendium HEDA PublicationsDownload a copy of the 9th edition of A Compendium of 100 High Profile Corruption Cases in Nigeria with Notable High Profile Corruption Cases in Africa
CategoriesHEDA Publications
CategoriesHEDA Publications
CategoriesHEDA NewsAs part of its effort to address climate change with innovative and lasting solutions, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), with support from OXFAM under the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) project, has trained 20 journalists, creatives, and climate advocates on the use of data and storytelling to spotlight climate issues and drive positive impact. The four-day Climate Creatives Bootcamp, held in Epe, Lagos, from Tuesday, September 23, to Friday, September 26, 2025, exposed participants to sessions on climate reporting, digital tools, innovative advocacy, and community-centered storytelling. The program was designed to bridge the gap between the lived realities of climate change and the often shallow or sensational narratives found in mainstream reporting and creative content. Guided by experts working at the intersection of climate justice, media, creative arts, and technology, participants explored the science and impacts of climate change, the human rights dimensions of climate justice, and the role of technology in shaping environmental decisions. Modules also examined how data and digital media tools can amplify marginalized voices, counter misinformation, and demand accountability from leaders. HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, said the initiative underscores the vital role of the media and creative sectors in shaping public understanding of climate issues. He noted that storytelling backed by data has the power to not only inform but also mobilize communities and influence policymakers. At the close of the bootcamp, participants were grouped for pitch presentations. The top two groups received grant prizes of ₦1 million and ₦500,000 respectively, to implement their innovative climate solutions focusing on air quality and food security. The bootcamp, which followed an earlier virtual masterclass, is part of HEDA’s broader commitment to promoting climate justice, good governance, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
CategoriesHEDA NewsIn a bid to close the gap between the lived realities of climate change and the urgent need for more innovative, impactful storytelling that can influence policies and drive climate-smart local action in frontline communities, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has announced a four-day media training program. The initiative is designed to equip journalists, creatives, and digital storytellers with the skills to move climate change narratives beyond abstract headlines and transform them into compelling stories that inspire action and accountability. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Executive Secretary, Sulaimon Arigbabu, the free capacity-strengthening program, structured as a certificate course, will run from September 16 to 19, 2025. The training will feature leading experts working at the intersection of climate justice, media, gender equality, creative arts, and digital technology. According to Arigbabu, the program underscores the critical role of the media and creative sectors in shaping public understanding of climate issues. He noted that while floods, droughts, and extreme weather events increasingly disrupt communities, environmental stories in the media are often underreported or lack the depth required to galvanize meaningful action. “This initiative therefore seeks to provide participants with the tools to tell compelling, inclusive, and relatable stories that not only inform but also mobilize communities and influence decision-makers,” he said. The training will explore how emerging opportunities in data, technology, and digital platforms can be harnessed to cut through misinformation, amplify marginalized voices, and push for accountability in climate governance. Sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including the science and impacts of climate change, the role of technology in shaping climate decisions, media framing of environmental issues in Nigeria and Africa, and the human rights dimensions of climate justice. Additional modules will examine the impact of climate shocks on Nigerian communities, the African context of climate justice, storytelling for advocacy, and the use of digital media tools for effective campaigns. The workshop is open to journalists, artists, filmmakers, writers, social media influencers, and other creatives across Nigeria and Africa. Successful participants will receive certificates upon completion. Interested applicants are encouraged to register via the official link: https://bit.ly/climatecreatives. HEDA Resource Centre further disclosed that the virtual masterclass will serve as a prelude to its full immersive residential bootcamp on climate storytelling, scheduled for later in September.
CategoriesHEDA NewsThe Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), Nigeria’s foremost anti-corruption and human rights organization, has called on the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, to immediately reinstate the criminal charges against Mr. Ahmed Kuru, former Managing Director of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON). In a petition signed by its Chairman, Mr. Olanrewaju Suraju, and addressed to the Attorney-General of the Federation, the civil society organization expressed grave concern over the decision of the Justice Ministerto discontinue criminal proceedings against Mr. Kuru, despite the fact that the case was being prosecuted under the Criminal Law of Lagos State. Recall that on August 12, 2025, The Guardian reported that Hon. Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court discharged the defendant following a Notice of Discontinuance filed by the Director of Public Prosecution on behalf of the AGF. HEDA stressed that the AGF acted outside the scope of his constitutional powers, insisting that Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution only empowers the AGF to discontinue criminal cases arising from Federal Laws Acts of the National Assembly, and not cases instituted under state laws. Further citing the Supreme Court decision in FRN v. Osahon (2006) 5 NWLR (Pt. 973) 361, the organization reiterated that matters arising from state laws remain the exclusive jurisdiction of the Attorney General of the State, in line with Section 211 of the Constitution. The group further referenced State v. Ilori (1983) 1 SCNLR 94 to reinforce its argument. According to HEDA, “Criminal defence is an opportunity for the accused to clear his name, not a political shield from justice. Allowing the case to proceed is in the best interest of justice, particularly as Mr. Kuru’s co-defendant has already admitted guilt through a plea bargain and forfeited proceeds of the crime to the EFCC.” The organization therefore demanded the immediate reinstatement of charges against Mr. Kuru and other defendants. It warned that failure by the AGF to act within 14 days would compel HEDA to petition the Nigerian Bar Association’s Disciplinary Committee for abuse of office and explore other local and international legal actions. The organisation reminded the Attorney General of a failed similar attempt by his immediate predecessor Abubakar Malami, in the case against an in-law to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, John Abebe in 2018, in which the current Special Adviser in the AGF’s office and efcc prosecutor, Rotimi Oyedepo SAN, vehemently opposed Malami’s request and persuaded Justice Dada against granting The request, on the simple ground that only AG of Lagos State is constitutionally empowered to effect such withdrawal or take Over. The civil society organization further reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the fight against corruption, the defence of human rights, and the pursuit of justice in Nigeria.
CategoriesHEDA NewsThe Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the federal government to ensure accountability and transparency in the disbursement and use of the recently approved ₦125.5 billion flood intervention fund. This is contained in a statement signed by the Executive Secretary of HEDA, Sulaimon Arigbabu, on Wednesday in Lagos. Mr Arigbabu warned against repeating the failures of past ecological fund disbursements marred by mismanagement, lack of transparency, and political interference. “Nigerians cannot afford to repeat the ecological fund debacle. This ₦125.5 billion must be treated as an exceptional emergency fund—ring-fenced and dedicated solely to flood prevention, mitigation, and disaster response. Anything short of full transparency will further erode public trust,” Mr Arigbabu said. He recalled that in 2012, the Goodluck Jonathan-led administration disbursed ₦17.6 billion for flood mitigation, yet many victims received only token reliefs as low as ₦500, while numerous communities were completely left out. Mr Arigbabu added, “We commend the federal government for this new intervention. However, without clear frameworks for tracking, coordinating, and reporting at both federal and state levels, this fund risks being another missed opportunity.’’ He demanded the publication of a detailed breakdown of the fund’s disbursement, including amounts allocated to each state and federal MDA, names of implementing agencies and specific communities and infrastructure projects targeted. He also questioned the ₦10 billion allocation to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), stating it was inadequate considering NEMA’s nationwide mandate. It called for more support for State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs) and stronger accountability mechanisms. “NEMA is the lead agency but cannot cover all flood-prone communities, especially where SEMAs are inactive. These agencies must be empowered, coordinated, and monitored for effective response,” Mr Arigbabu noted. On regional flood emergencies, he urged Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, to publish a full report on September 10, 2024, Alau Dam flooding, to reassure the public and strengthen preparedness efforts. It also demanded a thorough investigation into the recent Mokwa flood in Niger State, which claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands. “Flooding in Nigeria is no longer an unexpected seasonal disaster—it is a predictable event. What we need is not just funding but institutional discipline and strategic response. “The success of this intervention will hinge on the integrity of its implementation,” he said. Mr Arigbabu enjoined all stakeholders—federal MDAs, state governments, and emergency agencies—to focus on people-centred interventions, including functional early warning systems, evacuation and emergency shelters, and sustainable drainage infrastructure.
CategoriesClimate changeThe Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has called on the Nigerian Senate to extend its ongoing efforts to combat crude oil theft by holding International Oil Companies (IOCs), particularly Shell and Eni, fully accountable for decades of environmental degradation, economic sabotage, and human rights violations in the Niger Delta. Reacting to the recent meeting between the Senate Ad-hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, HEDA in a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, welcomed the renewed legislative attention to oil-related crimes but insisted that justice must go beyond addressing local theft. “While we commend the Senate for stepping up collaboration with security agencies to tackle oil theft, the deeper and more enduring theft is the environmental and economic plunder by IOCs. These companies including Shell and Eni in particular are attempting to exit Nigerian onshore quietly, divesting their assets without taking responsibility for the massive devastation they have caused. That is unacceptable.” Suraju maintained. The Senate Committee, led by Senator Ned Nwoko, recently emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence sharing and stronger coordination with security agencies to safeguard Nigeria’s oil infrastructure. However, HEDA insists that securing oil assets is only one part of the equation. “Justice for Niger Delta residents cannot be secured by police action alone, if the Senate truly wants to end economic sabotage, then it must also tackle the longstanding impunity of oil multinationals who, for decades, operated with little regard for the environment or the people.” Suraju added. HEDA recalled its consistent advocacy against hasty divestment by IOCs. The organization petitioned both Nigerian authorities and international accountability institutions to demand that IOCs remediate polluted sites and compensate affected communities before divesting. This demand was repeated in 2023 and 2024 following international legal rulings against the Shell. Yet, concrete local action remains grossly inadequate. “It’s time for the Nigerian Senate to show the same urgency in enforcing environmental justice as it is doing in curbing oil theft, communities in Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta and beyond continue to suffer the health, economic, and ecological consequences of oil extraction and they must not be abandoned again.” Suraju stressed. According to data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), between 2002 and 2025, Nigeria lost over 353 million barrels of crude oil worth an estimated $25.7 billion to theft. HEDA warns that the Senate must also investigate how much more has been lost to pollution, displacement, and corporate irresponsibility. “This is a defining moment, the Senate must rise above politics and protect the dignity and rights of the people. Shell and Eni must not be allowed to walk away without cleaning up their mess. Anything less is an injustice.” Suraju concluded.
CategoriesHEDA NewsThe Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has strongly condemned the arrest and brutal treatment meted out to Mr. Omoyele Sowore, a political activist and former presidential candidate, by the Nigeria Police Force. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the civil society group decried the illegal arrest, physical injury, inhumane treatment, and attempts on his life while in custody. “The circumstances surrounding Sowore’s invitation, detention, and transfer to an undisclosed location, including the reported alleged release of noxious gas into his holding cell and the severe injury to his right arm are unacceptable and condemnable,” Suraju stated. These actions according to HEDA raise serious concerns about the sanctity of human life and the rule of law in Nigeria. Suraju emphasized that as a human rights group that values freedom and the dignity of all individuals, HEDA cannot stand idly by while Sowore is subjected to such treatment by the Nigeria Police force in a case reportedly involving police officers allegedly close to the Inspector General of the police force. The group demands the immediate and unconditional release of Omoyele Sowore, provision of necessary medical attention, and assurance of his safety. HEDA also insists that the Nigeria Police Force must tender a public apology for the violation of Sowore’s human rights. “We hold the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, and those responsible for this atrocity accountable for any harm that comes to Sowore’s health or life and will report them individually and collectively to all relevant international bodies and governments,” Suraju added. HEDA also urges civil society organizations and the international community to join in condemning this brazen act of police brutality and demand justice for Omoyele Sowore.
CategoriesHEDA NewsThe Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has condemned the Osun State Government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, over what it described as reckless, unjustifiable, and wasteful spending of public resources. The condemnation follows verifiable reports by SaharaReporters and The Guardian which revealed that the state government spent over ₦115 million on fumigation and a staggering ₦3.1 billion on foreign trips within a span of six months. These figures reportedly surpass the funds allocated to critical sectors such as basic education, water supply, and environmental services. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, HEDA described the financial decisions of the Adeleke-led administration as a disgraceful misuse of public funds in a state where the majority of residents still lack access to basic amenities. “It is both morally and legally unacceptable for any government to prioritise frequent foreign travels and questionable fumigation contracts over the basic welfare of its people. If this pattern of extravagant expenditure is not addressed, it could worsen the state’s economic challenges and further alienate the people from governance.” Suraju said. HEDA questioned the state government’s fiscal priorities and demanded full transparency in the use of public funds. The group specifically called on Governor Adeleke to publicly release a detailed breakdown of all foreign trips and fumigation contracts, including the names of contractors and the rationale behind the expenses. In addition, the group urged the Osun State Government to drastically cut non-essential spending and reallocate resources to sectors that directly impact the people such as education, healthcare, water access, youth employment, and rural development. “Governance is not an avenue for wasteful spending. The people of Osun deserve leadership that is transparent, prudent, and focused on delivering tangible development,” Suraju added. HEDA further charged the Osun State House of Assembly and civil society organisations to strengthen their oversight role and ensure the protection of public interest. The organisation argued that State Governor have refused to translate increased federal allocations into tangible governance delivery but rather frivolous expenditure and diversion of public funds, and reaffirmed its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and responsible governance across Nigeria.
Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resources Centre) is a non-governmental organisation and non-partisan human rights and development league.
