HEDA - HEDA Resource Centre

HEDA Condemns Police Detention and Brutality Against Omoyele Sowore, Demands Unconditional Release

The 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.

August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 By heda

HEDA News

HEDA Slams Osun Govt Over N3.1bn Foreign Trips, N115m Fumigation Spend in Six Months

The 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.

August 25, 2025August 25, 2025 By heda

HEDA News

Seun Onigbinde Critiques Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Calls for Fiscal Discipline and Deeper Civic Engagement

At the latest edition of HEDA Resource Centre’s X-Space conversation, Seun Onigbinde, the Executive Director of BudgIT, delivered a thought-provoking assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, two years into its tenure. Speaking on the theme “Assessing the Socio-Economic Prosperity of Nigerians Under President Tinubu’s First Two Years in Power,” Onigbinde questioned whether the country has truly experienced prosperity especially from the standpoint of everyday Nigerians. He began by dissecting the government’s twin reforms: fuel subsidy removal and currency devaluation. While these moves have significantly increased government revenues raising FAAC allocations for both federal and state governments, Onigbinde argued that they came at a great cost to the public. According to him, Nigerians have been left to absorb the shock of skyrocketing inflation, rising transportation costs, and stagnant wages, all without adequate social protection measures. “The government tore off the economic bandage without preparing for the pain,” he said. “There was no structured palliative framework to cushion the effects, and yet government spending remained luxurious.” He highlighted the failure of most state governments to demonstrate fiscal discipline, lamenting that increased revenues have not translated into tangible improvements in education, health, or agriculture. Instead, the culture of wasteful spending persists. “We still have 42 ministers, lavish convoys, and endless airport projects, while teachers go unpaid and hospitals remain underfunded,” he noted. On the education front, Onigbinde acknowledged the establishment of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a commendable initiative. However, he argued that it barely scratches the surface. “Access to loans is a short-term fix. The real conversation should be about investment in research, academic infrastructure, and aligning university output with industry needs,” he said. Turning to solutions, he advocated for deliberate industrial policies, including the development of special economic and agro-processing zones, backed by reliable energy supply and targeted tax incentives. He stressed that without fixing power, Nigeria’s manufacturing sector cannot be globally competitive. The discussion also touched on voter apathy. Onigbinde warned that political disengagement especially among young Nigerians poses a threat to the country’s democratic future. He encouraged the youth to take electoral participation seriously, saying, “Two bad leaders can ruin 16 years of your life. Politics is not a game it determines the quality of life you’ll have.” In his closing remarks, he underscored the importance of consistent civic engagement. “We must remain involved between elections. Nigeria cannot be outsourced to the elite or their proxies. Rigorous accountability and citizen action are essential for true national progress.” The HEDA X-Space program continues to serve as a platform for open dialogue, accountability, and strategic reflection on national issues, drawing voices from across civil society, governance, and the private sector.

August 25, 2025 By heda

Climate change

HEDA Congratulates EFCC Chairman on Prestigious Award

The Human and Environmental Developmental Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has extended warm congratulations to the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, following his receipt of a Certificate of Recognition from the Canadian High Commission. This prestigious award acknowledges Olukoyede’s outstanding contributions to combating transnational crime. According to the leading civil society organisation, the EFCC has played a crucial role in curbing organized crime, strengthening security, and promoting justice under Olukoyede’s leadership. The commission’s efforts in tackling financial fraud, vehicle trafficking, online exploitation, and drug smuggling have garnered international recognition. HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju commended Olukoyede’s leadership and the EFCC’s commitment to professionalism, expressing pride in their achievements and looking forward to continued collaboration in the fight against corruption and financial crimes. The organization celebrated this milestone as a testament to the EFCC’s dedication to justice and security.

June 10, 2025June 10, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

HEDA Sues Shell, FG, Others Over Oil Licence Transfer

The Incorporated Trustees of HEDA Resource Centre has initiated legal proceedings against Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Renaissance African Energy Company Limited, and several key government agencies over the transfer of an oil exploration licence. The suit marked FHC/L/CS/651/2025, filed by Kunle Adegoke, SAN, on behalf of the plaintiff at the Federal High Court in Lagos, raises critical concerns regarding compliance with Nigeria’s legal and regulatory frameworks governing the petroleum industry. The lawsuit names seven defendants include the Attorney General and Minister for Justice of the Federation, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCLtd), Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. HEDA Resource Centre contends that the transfer and divestment of Shell’s oil exploration licence to Renaissance African Energy Company Limited may have contravened provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, and related regulations. Key issues raised by HEDA include concerns over the legality, transparency, and regulatory compliance of the transaction. The plaintiff asserts that the process failed to meet statutory provisions, including the requirement to conduct and disclose an Environmental Evaluation Study under the Upstream Petroleum Environmental Regulation, 2022. HEDA argues that allowing the transaction to proceed without adhering to these legal requirements could set a dangerous precedent and undermine national and public interest, particularly regarding environmental sustainability and the welfare of communities in the Niger Delta. HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, stressed the urgency of transparency and compliance in the oil licence transfer, stating, “This transaction threatens public interest and the environment if legal requirements, like the Environmental Evaluation Study, are ignored. The welfare of Niger Delta communities and sustainable management of petroleum resources must be prioritized to avoid setting a harmful precedent.” The legal application seeks several declaratory and injunctive reliefs, including an order restraining all parties from proceeding with, approving, or enforcing the transfer until full compliance with Nigeria’s legal framework is ensured. HEDA emphasizes that strict adherence to regulatory processes is crucial for transparency, accountability, and the sustainable management of the country’s petroleum resources. The Federal High Court is expected to hear the case in the coming weeks, with stakeholders in the petroleum industry and environmental advocacy groups closely monitoring its implications. This suit highlights the ongoing scrutiny of oil and gas transactions in Nigeria and reinforces the call for regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship in the sector.

April 14, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

HEDA Commends EFCC’s Anti-Corruption Efforts on Ex-AGF Idris N109 Billion Fraud Case, Calls for Swift Judicial Action

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its unwavering commitment to fighting corruption. This commitment is evident in the ongoing trial of former Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Ahmed Idris, and others accused of diverting N109.5 billion in public funds. In a statement signed by HEDA’s Chairman, Olanrewaju Suraju, the group commended the EFCC’s resolve in pursuing the case. He emphasized, “The massive scale of the alleged fraud highlights the urgent need for accountability in public office. We urge the judiciary to ensure justice is served promptly, as prolonged trials can embolden corruption and erode public trust in our legal system.” While acknowledging the importance of due process, the anti-corruption group stresses that justice should not be compromised by technicalities or unnecessary delays. Suraju added, “The judiciary plays a vital role in reinforcing Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight by handling cases like this with urgency and fairness. We demand the same level of commitment in handling the case of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello.” HEDA further demand the prosecution of States Commissioners of Finance and Governor who were part of the Paris club refund corruption for the which the former Accountant General is standing trial. HEDA remains committed to advocating for transparency, accountability, and good governance. The civil society organization calls on all stakeholders in the justice system to work towards a judicial process that strengthens Nigeria’s anti-corruption framework, ensuring those found guilty face the full consequences of the law.

March 17, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

HEDA Report Exposes Oil Licensing Flaws, Weak Regulations, Environmental Injustice

As part of its effort to ensure transparency and accountability in the Nigeria’s oil licensing bidding process, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has exposed serious flaws in Nigeria’s oil licensing process, highlighting regulatory failures, financial misconduct, and environmental injustice in the Niger Delta. At the public presentation of its latest report in Ikeja, Lagos, HEDA revealed that several companies awarded marginal oil field licenses in the 2020/2021 bidding round lacked proper registration and failed to meet legal and financial requirements. The report, with the support from Africa Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP), titled “Marginal Fields’ Awards, Regulators’ Independence, and Environmental Injustice: Paradox of Beneficial Ownership and the Host Communities”, also raised concerns over the unchecked environmental damage caused by oil companies. Chairman, HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, condemned the awarding of contracts to unregistered companies, questioning the credibility of Nigeria’s oil sector regulations. “Out of approximately 38 companies, 18 are not even registered, and many have failed to file their annual returns. This is not about the supply of goods and services; we are talking about Nigeria’s main economic sector,” he said. He stressed that the failure to enforce due diligence had led to massive revenue losses for the country and called for collaboration between regulatory agencies such as the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI). Beyond financial misconduct, Suraju warned that environmental pollution in the Niger Delta remains a pressing concern. He urged civil society, the diplomatic community, and international organisations to intervene, particularly as oil companies attempt to divest from Nigeria without fulfilling their environmental responsibilities. The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) Executive Secretary of NEITI, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, commended HEDA’s efforts in promoting transparency and accountability, reaffirming NEITI’s commitment to ensuring responsible resource management. “Beneficial ownership transparency is not just about knowing who owns what. It is about protecting our nation’s resources from corruption, illicit financial flows, and mismanagement. Host communities must be protected, compensated, and empowered.” Book Reviewer and Lecturer, University of Lagos, Prof. Dayo Ayoade, criticised the licensing process, describing it as compromised by political influence and corruption. “The 2020/2021 marginal fields bidding round exhibited procedural abuse and corrupt practices, leading to significant financial losses. Some of the winning companies were owned or backed by politically exposed persons,” he said. Ayoade added that 11 out of the 35 surveyed companies were inactive under the CAC, while several lacked the tax clearance certificates required for eligibility under the Public Procurement Act 2007. He further warned that oil companies seeking to exit Nigeria must first be held accountable for their environmental damage. “Before these companies are allowed to exit, they must remediate the damage done, pay compensation, and fulfill their decommissioning responsibilities.” You can download the report here

March 14, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

HEDA 38th ACSR: Stakeholders Urge President Tinubu to Intensify Anti-Corruption Efforts

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s fight against corruption convened at the 38th Anti-Corruption Situation Room (ACSR), organized by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre). They called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt a holistic approach to combat corruption, addressing all sectors and managing public expectations. They also urged the implementation of the National Anti-Corruption Strategy 2022-2026 as a working document. The event, themed “Ethics, Integrity, Corruption Risk Assessments, and Anti-Corruption at National and Sub-National Levels in Nigeria: Sustaining the Fight Against Corruption,” aimed to engage stakeholders in responding to the country’s recent corruption perception rating, addressing pervasive issues of corruption and impunity, and fostering a culture of ethical respect, integrity, and accountability at all levels of governance. Participants emphasized that deterrence remains the best strategy in the fight against corruption. They called for sustained punishment for corrupt individuals and improvements in the quality of investigations and law enforcement. Despite the challenges, participants expressed hope and agreed to intensify efforts to eradicate corruption for Nigeria’s prosperity, social, economic, and political renaissance. Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, decried the state of corruption in Nigeria, describing it as a major obstacle to the country’s development. He urged Nigerians to support law enforcement agencies in holding corrupt persons accountable. He said, “The fight against corruption is for everyone. When you see people being investigated and we have shown you the evidence, don’t join them to carry placards and abuse EFCC, ICPC, and because you are contributing to the problems. All of us must fight this corruption together” Speaking as the keynote speaker on the theme, “Fostering Integrity and Accountability to Reclaim Our Future: Strategies for Combating Corruption and Impunity Across Board in Nigeria,” Prof. Shehu Abdullah identified strong political will and an effective legislative framework as key strategies to combat corruption and impunity in Nigeria. He also urged state actors to prioritize accountability, stating, “Earning the trust and confidence of the citizens through accountability is critical in combating corruption. Involving the people and ensuring the accessibility of civil society are essential.” Prof. Abdullah emphasized the importance of public officials declaring their assets and ensuring such declarations are verified. He called for the strengthening of regimes to prevent corruption and bring corrupt actors to justice. “Despite the importance of prevention, deterrence remains the best option,” he concluded. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) challenged anti-corruption agencies to go beyond prosecuting financial crimes in the courts and actively engage citizens in the fight against corruption. He stressed the importance of framing corruption in ways that resonate with ordinary Nigerians, particularly at the grassroots level. Chairman of HEDA Resource Centre, Olanrewaju Suraju, highlighted the need for political will to enforce and implement anti-corruption laws effectively. He emphasized the critical role of civil society, the media, and the public in promoting transparency and pushing for accountability, especially in an environment where politicians might lack the will to pursue anti-corruption agendas. “The only problem we consistently contend with is the commitment and the will to implement the laws. If we can implement 50 percent of the laws in Nigeria, we will be far better than where we are.” He added. The conference included three key sessions: Leveraging Media, Technology, and Civil Society Partnerships to Combat Impunity and Promote Corruption Prevention; promoting Judicial Independence, Rule of Law, and Ethical Leadership for Integrity in Public and Private Sectors; and Enhancing Integrity and Accountability in the Public Sector to Strengthen Anti-Corruption Agencies and Combat Grand Corruption for Sustainable Governance. Participants concluded the conference with a renewed sense of hope and commitment to intensifying efforts to combat corruption, ensuring Nigeria’s leadership in the regional and international arena.

March 14, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

Food security and agriculture HEDA News

IWD 2025: HEDA Reaffirms Commitment to Smallholder Women Farmers

As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has commended women farmers for their tireless efforts in ensuring food security. The organization reaffirms its commitment to advocating for policies and practices that promote the livelihood, health, and well-being of small-scale women farmers. According to Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA, “Women farmers face numerous challenges, including indoor air pollution from traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and firewood, which pose significant health risks. To address this, we will intensify our advocacy for cleaner cooking technologies to promote good health and well-being among women smallholder farmers.” In addition to promoting cleaner cooking technologies, HEDA will prioritize empowering women farmers with critical climate and agrometeorological information. This will enable them to make informed decisions and minimize losses, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable food system. “We will also collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen market linkages, creating better economic opportunities for women in agriculture. HEDA remains committed to amplifying the voices of women farmers, championing their rights, and pushing for policies that empower them to thrive,” added Arigbabu. By focusing on the specific needs and challenges of women smallholder farmers, HEDA aims to contribute to a more equitable and sustainable food system transformation.

March 14, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako

HEDA News

HEDA Drags National Assembly to Court over Constitutional Breach

The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre) has filed a suit at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, challenging the National Assembly’s alleged breach of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The suit, FHC/L/CS/286/25 filed by Mrs. Fumilayo Falana, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), on behalf of HEDA Resource Centre, seeks the court’s interpretation of Sections 88(1) and (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. HEDA Resource Centre is praying the court to declare that the National Assembly is not competent to direct or cause to be directed investigations into any matter without a resolution published in its journal or the Official Gazette of the Government of the Federation. Additionally, the plaintiff is seeking a declaration that the powers of the National Assembly to conduct investigations are exercisable only for the purpose of enabling them to make laws, correct defects in existing laws, expose corruption, inefficiency, or waste in the execution or administration of laws. The civil society organisation is also seeking an order of perpetual injunction restraining the National Assembly from summoning or inviting private persons and representatives of private corporate bodies to appear before them or any of their committees without following the appropriate procedure and purpose under the law. According to HEDA Resource Centre, the National Assembly has been summoning private persons and representatives of private corporate bodies to appear before its committees without due process, which is a breach of the Constitution. The plaintiff argues that the National Assembly’s investigative powers are not at large and are subject to the provisions of the Constitution. This legal action underscores HEDA Resource Centre’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.

March 14, 2025 By Nurudeen Salako