International

Curfew revoked, life returns to normal in Sierra Leone

Published

2 years ago

August 19, 2022

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Curfew revoked normal life returns to normal in Sierra Leone

Curfew revoked, life returns to normal in Sierra Leone

By Bodunrin Kayode

The Government of Sierra Leone has revoked the curfew which was imposed on the country recently due to violent demonstrations by some angry sections.

A release from the office of the inspector General of Police, William Sellu recently stated that “following the declaration of a nationwide curfew by the Vice President of Sierra Leone, the general public was notified that the curfew which came in force on the 10th August has been revoked.”

It can be recalled that the curfew was speedily enforced from 3pm on the 10th of August when hundreds of young people demonstrated in certain sections of the country over what they described as excruciating economic conditions forced on them by the government.

They called on the civilian Government of President Julius Mada-Bio to resign because it had become unpopular in their opinion and unable to settle the carry over of fiscal burdens forced on it by the covid 19 scourge.

The Government quickly adjusted the timing of the shut down in the following day to start from 7am and that applied for both the 11th to 12th August 2022.

However on the 13th of August, the curfew was lifted completely in those areas which were affected and people were free to go around without necessarily being essential workers who were the only once allowed to move during the calming of the street violence.

Reports monitored from Sierra Leone indicated that properties worth millions of Leones were destroyed in some parts of the Eastern area of the capital, Makeni, Magburaka, kamakwie and surrounding.

There was tension in some parts of the western area but it remained basically peaceful especially Murray town, Wilkinson road, Lumley and beyond because people went about their normal lives unhindered.

While the blood letting was going on in some parts, some allegedly inciting videos were making the rounds in the social media calling out some sections of the country to protest and hold the streets in a military fashion till the President resigns.

One of the audio with a male voice who called himself Adebayo was saying that the military was badly divided with tribal bigots adding that it was time to remain alert because “anything could happen on the very night of the 12 of August when the killings continued” which was the day it went viral.

Similar audios from one Salone cashbox kept on inciting the people of the country with an anticipitation that the military should take over political power again in the Country.

“We know that there are some people in the military playing the tribal card at this time of our democracy. So my people be prepared because anything can happen before tomorrow morning.

“Just be well informed that whatever happens will be for the good of everyone. For some of us we believe that if the government is not ready to protect the constitution and the people, then the military will do just that.

” I urge you all to come out and embrace the change which we are all anticipating because we will not continue to suffer under this Government.” Said the male voice who called himself cash box in the audio which was circulated in the major cities.

Response on the “boys scout” accusation by a lady wearing military fatigue

Indeed many videos of gory pictures of the killings that took place within 48 hours even of uniformed personnel during those days before the imposition of the curfew but the military refused to respond to the call to sack the government.

Rather a lady dressed in army uniform appeared in one of the videos appealing to Sierra Leoneans to be careful how quick they respond to incitements.

“My.name is Turuge and I joined the Army at a tender age of 12 in 1991. Most of you may not understand what we went through during the civil war which is why you are involved in this violence.

” Some of you are calling soldiers boys scout because we refused to seize power. I agree you can call us any name you like but we will not take over this government because you say so. It’s not right.

“The government of President Mada-Bio is a democratically elected government and nobody will push us to do the wrong thing again.

“My people I am talking with pains in my heart and I want you to understand that war is not good eventhough I am a soldier. I fought in the war front and I saw many of our compatriots pay the supreme sacrifice while many others lost their limbs.

” Please stop calling on the military simply because you don’t know the implications. I beg you please do not take us back to that route again and stop inciting us to take over it’s not popular anymore” she said in an emotional krio voice.

National wide broadcast

As a response to the violent protests, President Julius Mada-Bio addressed the nation and promised to get to the root of the violence which took the life of an unspecified number of civilians and 4 policemen.

Speaking as the commander in Chief of Armed forces, he said no stone will be turned to get to the bottom of what happened to the country.

He resultantly ruffled feathers at the top brass level where sitting Defense Chief Lt General Sullay Sesay was replaced by a new Chief Lt General Peter Lavahun.

Seven other top brasses were moved around to tighten up the defense flank while he promised to protect every citizen of his country.

The President said that he has enough Intelligence details to establish that what happened on the 10th of August in those selected areas was an insurrection sponsored by some unnamed politicians adding that anyone nabbed would be made to face the full wrath of the law.

President Julius Mada-Bio was a military head of State from 16th January to 29th March 1996 in a junta called the national provincial ruling council (NPRC) which overthrew captain Valentine Straser.

His second coming as President of the Republic of Sierra Leone in 2018 was as a civilian and Brigadier General (Rt) and has been stabilizing the polity as the flag bearer of the Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP) since then.

The country has gone through some litany of woes which includes, a decade long civil war followed by the scourge of Ebola and covid 19 lock down which practically crippled the economy and sent millions to their early grave.

International

Nigeria/EU trade volume hits €45b

Published

2 weeks ago

May 10, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Nigeria/EU trade volume hits €45b

By: Michael Mike

Latest statistics has shown that Nigeria and European Union trade volume has grown to €45 billion.

The statistics showed that this was the case as at September 2023, even as the
United Nations COMTRADE database indicated that Nigeria remains EU largest trade partner, accounting for 20.9% of Nigeria’s global trade.

The EU is made up of 28 European countries, though there are 50 countries considered European.

The Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu during the celebration of 2024 European Day in Abuja on Thursday night said the value of trade between Nigeria and the EU has increased consistently, demonstrating the
potential for even greater collaboration.

Kalu while disclosing that Nigeria is prepared to provide an encouraging environment for investment, said: “The European Union is one of our most significant trading partners, and our economic ties have grown steadily.

“The value of trade between Nigeria and the EU has increased consistently, demonstrating the potential for even greater collaboration.”

Kalu while quoting the United Nations COMTRADE database, added that “as of September 2023, the EU’s bilateral trade with Nigeria has surpassed €45 billion.

“The EU is Nigeria’s largest trading partner, accounting for 20.9% of Nigeria’s
global trade.”

He assured EU that: “As we look to the future, Nigeria is committed to engendering an environment encouraging investment and trade with our European
partners.

“We recognize the vital role that
European businesses play in our economic development, and we welcome
continued investment in ourindustries, infrastructure, and technology
sectors.”

He equally, commended the cultural exchange between both parties, saying “Europe is a source of rich history, art, and
innovation, while Nigeria is a vibrant hub of diverse cultures and traditions.

“By having cultural exchanges, we build bridges of understanding that
transcend geographical boundaries.

“I am pleased to see that more
European cultural events are being held in Nigeria and that Nigerian
artists, musicians, and scholars are gaining recognition in Europe.

“These exchanges contribute to a more harmonious and interconnected world.”

The Deputy Speaker also commended the EU for it support to the country, especially in the area of education, healthcare,
digital economy, agriculture, security, and governance.

He noted that: “The European Union (EU) is supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation with a €820 million
investment through its Global Gateway initiative.

“This investment includes €160million in grants and €660million in loans.

“The EU is also supporting
Nigeria’s digital future through the AU-EUD4D Hub, a project that helps
African institutions create an enabling environment for a sustainable digital
transformation.

“Further more, the European Union has initiated several projects aimed at
promoting climate-smart agriculture and advancing Nigeria’s green transition.

“The GENESII: Mobility for Plant Genomics Scholars to Accelerate Climate-Smart Adaptation Options and Food Security in Africa II, is designed to foster academic exchange and research in plant
genomics, enhancing Africa’s adaptation to climate change and promoting
food security.

“The Small Hydro Power Development for Agro-industry Use (SHP-DAIN) project promotes the use of small-scale hydro power to boost agro-industrial production.”

He stressed that the EU’s commitment to the Climate-Smart Agriculture for Development Programme “underlines its support for climate-smart, innovative agriculture with an improved agribusiness climate and equitable participation of women and youth.”

He also said: “Beyond these projects,
the EU has also demonstrated its commitment to security and peace in the
Lake Chad region, mobilizing €2.5 billion since 2014 to support stabilization, peace, and security initiatives.

“This extensive support highlights the EU’s dedication to sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians”.

Kalu said: “As the Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, I believe in the importance of strengthening our democratic institutions and promoting
good governance.

“Europe has been a valuable partner in this regard, offering support and guidance as we work to uphold the principles of
democracy and the rule of law.”

In her remarks, Head of EU delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Samuela Isopi said Nigeria remains a strategic partner to EU.

Isopi said EU cooperation with Nigeria tops global rankings whether in the energy and climate, digital, innovation, health or entrepreneurship areas.

She also said EU is targeting critical private and public investment in Nigeria.

Isopi also assured Nigeria of EU support in the efforts at ensuring democratic rules in the West African region.

She noted that: “A year ago, we met to celebrate Europe Day on the eve of the inauguration of the new administration in Nigeria and the start of a new chapter in our partnership. Since then, the joint visit of EU International Partnerships and Energy Commissioners, Jutta Urpilainen and Kadri Simpson, in October last year for the EU-Nigeria Strategic Dialogue, positioned Nigeria as a primary partner for the European Union.

“By now, EU cooperation with Nigeria tops global rankings whether in the energy and climate, digital, innovation, health or entrepreneurship areas. This is further amplified by our joint work with EU Member States and EU financial institutions (such as the European Investment Bank) as Team Europe, which combines our strengths across most areas of cooperation.

“In line with the Global Gateway strategy, EU cooperation is now targeting critical public and private investments, thereby providing the necessary instruments to make such investments viable and sustainable. In the health sector, besides continuous support to public actors at federal and state level, our support includes the mobilisation of public and private sectors investors towards increased local manufacturing of vaccines and other health products. “

On the coming Nigeria/EU Business Forum on July 2nd in Abuja, Isopi said it will bear witness to progress made and raise our ambition for the years to come.”

Adding, “As we increasingly focus on investments, our support to migration, governance, peace and security will continue unabated. This support reflects the fundamental values and challenges that bind the EU and Nigeria, such as the rule of law, democratic governance and protection of fundamental rights.

“In that regard, we believe that the position – and empowerment – of women and youth in today’s Nigeria deserves our collective attention. “

On the political front, the envoy said “While working with the National Assembly, Government at Federal and State level, we remain strong advocate and supporters of the need for a vibrant civil society, which provides a unique opportunity to promote change and accountability.

“Since we last met to celebrate Europe day, West Africa has gone through one of the most difficult times in its history.

“The EU continues to stand by Nigeria, by its regional partners and by ECOWAS and remains committed to supporting the region in building a community for the people.”

Nigeria/EU trade volume hits €45b

International

Gaza: 155,000 Pregnant Women Struggling to Survive- Says Palestine Envoy

Published

2 weeks ago

May 5, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Gaza: 155,000 Pregnant Women Struggling to Survive- Says Palestine Envoy

By: Michael Mike

Ambassador of Palestine to Nigeria, Abdullah Shawesh has drawn global attention to emerging humanitarian crisis in war torn Gaza, stating that around 155,000 pregnant women and new mothers are struggling to survive.

He said: “They are suffering from hunger and the diseases that stalk it, amid life-threatening shortages of food, water and medical care …. Only three maternity hospitals remain in the Gaza Strip, and they are overwhelmed with patients.

“Doctors and midwives … are struggling to provide adequate care to newborns.”

Addressing a press conference at the weekend on the situation in Gaza, Shawesh lamented that mass graves continued to be discovered on Gaza Strip, with the war currently leaving an estimated 37 million tons of debris and unexploded ordnance.

He decried that as it stands, the war is projected could take 14 years to clear the unexploded ordnance and rubble.

Shawesh said: “As of May 1, the number of Palestinian martyrs has reached 34,535, with 77,704 wounded, in addition to thousands of others who are still missing under the rubble or subjected to enforced disappearance in Israeli occupation detention centers.”

He alleged that “Palestinian detainees are subjected to harsh measures, receiving minimal sustenance such as a single slice of bread and a small amount of food to merely sustain their lives and prevent death, resulting in substantial weight loss and serious health consequences.”

“Around 155,000 pregnant women and new mothers are struggling to survive. They are suffering from hunger and the diseases that stalk it, amid life-threatening shortages of food, water and medical care …. Only three maternity hospitals remain in the Gaza Strip, and they are overwhelmed with patients.

He noted that: “The Palestinian Minister of Transport, Tariq Zourub, declared that the losses of the transportation sector in the Gaza Strip exceeded 3 billion dollars. The occupation destroyed about 945 km of roads and 55,000 vehicles, which is equivalent to 65% of the road network and 60% of the vehicles licensed in the strip.
Day after day, Israeli crimes in Gaza are revealed, and every day we witness a new chapter of genocidal crimes.”

He added that: “Recently, many mass graves were discovered in the Al-Shifa Medical Complex and the Nasser Medical Complex in the Gaza Strip, which contain hundreds of dead bodies.”

Gaza: 155,000 Pregnant Women Struggling to Survive- Says Palestine Envoy

International

Rwanda Warns that Allowing Hatred, Disunity to Fester Could Lead to Genocide

Published

1 month ago

April 7, 2024

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Rwanda Warns that Allowing Hatred, Disunity to Fester Could Lead to Genocide

By: Michael Mike

Rwanda has warned of the dangers of allowing hatred and disunity to fester, insisting that this could lead to genocide like it witnessed over 30 years ago where a million people were killed in the spate of 100 days.

The Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Christophe Bazivamo, stated this at the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Abuja.

The commemoration is observed under the multi-year theme, “Remember – Unite – Renew”.

Bazivamo stated that the path to lasting peace demands constant vigilance, adding that “As we renew, we restate our unbreakable pledge to fight intolerance, discrimination, ethnic hatred, hate speeches, genocide revisionism, and denial in all their forms.

“Unfortunately, this is happening today just beyond Rwanda’s borders in the Great Lakes region. We should never allow the embers of hatred to reignite.”

The High Commissioner further said: stated: “On this Kwibuka 30, together, we can ensure that the memory of the victims becomes a powerful force for good, inspiring future generations to choose peace over hate, unity over division, and hope over despair.

“This can be achieved in different ways including putting course lessons about the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in schools and the establishment of memory symbols in remembrance of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi to educate the young and the next generation on the need to fight hate ideologies and stand against any form of discrimination and divisionism. Let us work together to build a world where such atrocities never happen again.”

In his remarks, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar conveyed the condolences of the Nigerian government to the survivors of the genocide.

Tuggar represented by a former ambassador to Sudan, Safiu Olaniyan said: “Genocide should not be allowed to raise its head ever again.”

The Secretary General, United Nations, Antonio Guterres urged the world to stand as one against all forms of hatred and discrimination.

Guterres whose speech was read at the occasion by the UN Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall noted that: “To those who would seek to divide us, we must deliver a clear, unequivocal and urgent message: never again.

“We can draw a straight line between the senseless slaughter of one million Tutsi — as well as some Hutu and others who opposed the genocide — and the decades of hate speech that preceded it, enflamed by ethnic tensions and the long shadow of colonialism.

“Today, around the world, the darkest impulses of humanity are being awakened once more by the voices of extremism, division and hate.

“On this solemn day of remembrance, let’s pledge to stand as one against all forms of hatred and discrimination.

In his remarks, a retired Nigerian Navy admiral, Samuel Alade who witnessed the genocide while in Rwanda said, “I commend the tenacity of purpose and the commitment of the Rwandans to make their nation an example of relevance.”

Rwanda Warns that Allowing Hatred, Disunity to Fester Could Lead to Genocide