News

Foreign Affairs Committee Urges UK Govt To Intervene In Kanu’s Case

Published

3 years ago

April 14, 2023

British Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC) has asked the United Kingdom Government to intervene in the matter of the Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who has been incarcerated by Nigeria’s secret police since June 2021.

According to a report by FAC, which was revealed to Vanguard by Kanu’s Special Counsel, Barr Aloy Ejimakor, on Friday, the UK government must act on recommendations that will favour Kanu as a British national.

The report said, “Foreign Affairs Committee issues damning report into the UK government’s failure to assist British nationals abroad as Kanu family appeals High Court judgment on challenge to two years of FCDO hand-wringing

“The Foreign Affairs Committee (“FAC”) has published a damning report, concluding that the UK government is failing to prevent “Abductor states” from “weaponising [the] citizenship of British nationals for geopolitical ends”.

“The report draws on evidence provided by the Kanu family in relation to British national Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (“IPOB”), who was abducted and tortured in Kenya by the Nigerian security forces and subject to extraordinary rendition to Nigeria in June 2021, where he has remained in detention ever since.

“The publication of the report is timely, as the Kanu family are about to appeal against the UK High Court judgment that the FCDO can lawfully evade reaching any conclusion on whether Mr Kanu has been subject to extraordinary rendition.

“The report makes various recommendations to combat the UK government’s failure to effectively assist British nationals like Mr Kanu, who find themselves subject to gross violations of their human rights abroad. The following recommendations are directly relevant to Mr Kanu’s case, though his family are fearful that the proposed policy reforms may come too late to help him.

“The report recommends: Whereas in Mr Kanu’s case – there is a UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention Opinion that a detention of a UK citizen is illegal, the FCDO should assume that the case will not be judged in line with international standards and should respond accordingly.

“The Government should as a matter of practice promote public acceptance of the Opinion (‘Conclusions and recommendations’, paragraph 4). The report notes that in Mr Kanu’s case, the UK government has not issued any comment on the UNWGAD’s unequivocal finding that Mr Kanu has been subject to arbitrary detention (footnote 31).

“Within the next 12 months, the Government should formalise and publish guidance outlining criteria for determining whether the detention of a UK national by a foreign state is considered arbitrary. A review should then be carried out of all UK nationals detained overseas according to the established criteria.

“The conclusions on the nature of the detention should be used to classify the case internally, in discussions with the family and, where appropriate, publicly (‘Conclusions and recommendations’, paragraph 2).

“The Kanu family support this recommendation as it has emerged from Mr Kanu’s judicial review challenge that the UK government does not have any specific policy to deal with British nationals subject to extraordinary rendition abroad.

“The FCDO should have a “central repository” for information on cases of arbitrary detention, detailing processes followed and learning gained, and should adopt a “systematic approach to all cases, not simply a sample” (‘Conclusions and recommendations’, paragraph 9). The majority of families who provided evidence towards the FAC on behalf of loved ones detained abroad described a “consistent feeling of a lack of transparency” from the FCDO and “inadequate” communication regarding the FCDO’s efforts to assist their loved ones (paragraph 70).

“The report notes Mr Kanu’s family’s concerns that although they have had regular communication with the FCDO, “this might not have been forthcoming had their legal representation not requested it” (paragraph 75).

“Within the next 12 months, the UK government should undertake appropriate consultation to establish the position of Director for Arbitrary and Complex Detentions, with a mandate including “coordinating the response to certain cases, providing a point of contact for families, convening a cross-government response, and coordinating the UK’s response to the multilateral efforts to address state hostage taking and arbitrary detention with a relentless focus on them. The postholder should have a direct line to the Prime Minister.”

“The presumption that “quiet diplomacy” is always appropriate throughout cases of state detention “is a false one” and the UK Government should use “the strongest possible language to call out” situations of state detention (‘Conclusions and recommendations’, paragraph 19).

“This is particularly notable in Mr Kanu’s case where the FCDO has repeatedly asserted, without any explanation, that the diplomatic approach it is adopting is appropriate, despite there being no tangible improvement in his case after nearly two years.

“The UK Government must use every means at its disposal to secure the basic level of consular access it commits to provide for its nationals and that it is entitled to under international law—regardless of the perceived legitimacy of the charges or rigour of the legal system.”

The report notes that “This could include imposing a political cost (such as delaying negotiation on other bilateral issues), walking out of speeches given by offending countries, or exploring legal options through the various international treaty mechanisms” (‘Conclusions and recommendations’, paragraph 24).

“This is essential in Mr Kanu’s case, where he has received limited and infrequent consular access.

“Reflecting on the report, Kingsley Kanu, the brother of Nnamdi Kanu, said: “For nearly two years now, our family have been pressing the UK government to take more robust action to assist my brother.

“However, the UK government has responded by wringing its hands, procrastinating and offering platitudes rather than action that makes a difference.

“The government has not been willing to even reach a conclusion, privately or publicly, on whether Nnamdi has been subject to extraordinary rendition and has constantly told us that the approach it is taking is the most appropriate one.

“It is satisfying to us that the FAC has called into question the FCDO’s blanket approach of ‘quiet diplomacy’ and has been critical of the level of protection the FCDO currently offers to British nationals detained abroad. We hope that the FCDO will take the recommendations into consideration and will reconsider its approach to my brother’s case in light of them.”

It disclosed that Mr Kanu’s family is represented by John Halford and Shirin Marker of Bindmans LLP, together with Charlotte Kilroy QC of Blackstone Chambers and Tatyana Eatwell of Doughty Street Chambers.

Ms Marker said, “The FAC’s report is a damning indictment of the government’s efforts to assist British nationals subject to serious violations abroad and unfortunately reflects the experience of Mr Kanu’s family in trying to engage the FCDO in his case. We welcome the FAC’s insightful recommendations and hope that the UK government will take immediate steps to implement them.

“In criticizing the blanket ‘quiet diplomacy’ approach adopted by the FCDO the report demonstrates further that the FCDO’s current position is untenable. We hope the FCDO will rethink it in the light of the report but are ready to put our concerns to the Court of Appeal if it will not do so.”

VANGUARD

News

Bauchi Govt Sensitises 14,000 LG Staff On Promotion Examination

Published

6 hours ago

December 18, 2025

Editor

The Bauchi State Local Government Service Commission has conducted a 2-day Sensitisation workshop for 14,000 local government staff on how to excel in the forthcoming promotion examination.

Speaking before the commencement of the workshop, Alh. Abubakar Wabi, the Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, said that the importance of the workshop for the LG workers could not be over-emphasised.

He said according to the tenets of examination policy, the main thrust of the exam, apart from paving the way for promotion, was to acquaint the staff with regulatory professional and general knowledge.

This, he added, contributed immensely in boosting their capacity and reading culture as well as increase effective performance of their duties for efficient service delivery.

According to him, the administration of Gov. Bala Mohammed of the state has resolved to sustain the examination policy and do everything within its reach to strengthen it for the benefit of civil servants and the Civil Service.

“The conduct of this sensitisation workshop is therefore a continued demonstration of the governor’s commitment and concern towards the upliftment of Local Governments as well as human capital development,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr Nasir Dewu, the Overseeing Permanent Secretary, Local Government Service Commission, said promotion examination has the main merit of keeping staff up-to-date with the staff regulations, procedures and General Knowledge.

These, he said, were vital for ensuring effective, efficient and productive Local Government Service.

“I am happy to inform you that the success witnessed in the 2023 edition of the examination held in 2024 is a further signal that the policy is a worthwhile one.”

He commended governor Mohammed for his commitment to ensure the examination policy’ success in the state.

Dewu urged the participants to reciprocate the kind gestures of the governor by being more dedicated to duties as well as contributing immensely in the revamping efforts of the Local Government Service.

In his address, Alh. Gambo Magaji, Dugge Management Services Limited (DMSL) the Consultant of the promotion examination, called on the participants to listen attentively to the papers that would be presented during the workshop.

Magaji, who said that the resource persons were experienced retired and serving technocrats billed to prepare them for the examination and beyond, added that the examination questions won’t be outside of what they would be taught.

The sensitisation workshop was carried out to help the staff writing the 2024 promotion examination on December 27 to excel.

News

Edo SSG Calls On Media To Support Govt Policies, Assures Better Welfare

Published

9 hours ago

December 18, 2025

Editor

L-R: Government House Public Relations Officer (PRO); Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Patrick Ebojele, Ph.D; Secretary to Edo State Government, Musa Ikhilor; Special Adviser to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Mr. Paul Ezewon during the courtesy visit.

The Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, has called on members of the media to continue to support government policies and programmes through objective, professional and balanced reportage, describing them as critical stakeholders in governance.

Ikhilor made the call while receiving members of the Governor’s Press Crew, Edo State Government House, led by the Chief Press Secretary, Ebojele Akhere Patrick, PhD, who paid him a courtesy visit in his office as part of the season’s greetings.

Responding, Ikhilor expressed gratitude for the gesture, noting that it was thoughtful and symbolic.

According to him, the media plays an indispensable role in governance and public accountability.

He said, “Whatever it is that we do, it still will not matter much if we do not have you guys to be our eyes and our ears to report some of those things so that Edo people will be aware and people globally will be aware, and that is where you come in very important.”

The SSG further emphasized the strategic role of journalists, describing them as the fourth estate of the realm.

Ikhilor stated, “Because without the press, the government is blind, deaf and dumb. You are the ones we can see with and you are the ones we can hear with and talk with as well. So we consider you very critical stakeholders in the affairs of governance. That is the sincere sentiment of the government,”

He acknowledged the challenges faced by the media, particularly poor working conditions, and assured that the government was aware and already taking steps to address them.

He said, “Your working conditions have not been the best one would have expected. These are some of the things we have made recommendations to His Excellency the Governor, and he has promised from next year, after this budget by January, with a new budget that is coming, there will be something substantial to cater for the media.”

Explaining the initial constraints of the administration, Ikhilor noted that spending was limited by budgetary provisions inherited at the time the government assumed office.

He explained, “When we came in, we met a budget already prepared. We just tried and tinkered with it to pass it as at then November–December. Once you don’t have an appropriation, you can’t spend. That would be a criminal offence,”

The SSG urged journalists to remain professional and committed to truth, regardless of circumstances.

He said, “Your responsibility as a journalist, your first training, your first duty, is the pursuit of truth wherever you find it. Reporting should not be based on a special relationship. Professionalism actually means you are consistent and you deliver, whether the day is good or the day is bad.”

He encouraged the media to continue to support government policies and programmes through accurate and diligent reporting, stressing the importance of teamwork in effective communication.

Commending the press crew, Ikhilor added, “I have seen exceptional reports from a lot of reporters here. Our camera men have done very well in terms of proper coverage. Everybody needs to work together as a team for the story to come alive and for the story to be complete.”

Earlier, while presenting a gift on behalf of the team to the SSG in appreciation of his leadership and support, the Chief Press Secretary, Ebojele Akhere Patrick, PhD, said, “In the spirit of the season, I present this to you on behalf of the Governor’s Press Crew in appreciation of your effort as the engine room of government.”

News

Forest Reserve: Okpebholo Broker Peace Between Host Communities, Investors

Published

21 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Editor

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo state on Wednesday brokered peace between host communities and investors on the use of government forest reserve land for agricultural purposes and investors.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Hon Dennis Idahosa, appealed to the various stakeholders to always tow the line of peace at all times

Okpebholo noted that by virtue of the Land Use Act, the land in dispute belongs to the Edo state government.

The governor blamed activities of the previous administration of the state for the hostility between the investors and the host communities over the land that spreads across Ovia South West and Ovia North East Local Government Areas.

He accused the previous administration of arbitrarily allocating the said forest reserve to investors to without due consultation with host communities of Iguomon, Egbetta and Usen.

He stated that the meeting with stakeholders became expedient in order to straighten out facts and restrategize.

“We had three investors that want to invest in oil palm production in the council areas, which is in line with the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo to turn the state into investment heaven.

“Today, we met with the critical stakeholders of Ovia South West and Ovia North East to ensure all interests are captured.

“The investors were here, the community leaders, led by the Elawure of Usen, Oba Wilson Oluogbe II, and Palace Chiefs all came.

“Initially, a 5 percent buffer was proposed by the previous administration, but based on the conversation we had today, the investors agreed to increase to 10 percent.

“Haven put into consideration that Ovia is an agrarian area, with 80 percent of people relying on subsistence farming for survival,” he stated.

Okpebholo maintained that part of the resolution involved the raising of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) by investors with their host communities to keep all parties involved in decision making.

IHe declared, “Our administration is people oriented. The interest of investors are paramount to us as well as the interest of our people.”

The Secretary to the Edo State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor stated that before the said land allocation to investors, the previous administration was supposed to have carried out diligent studies and a NEEDS assessment in relations to the communities.

He said basic steps ought to have been followed, such as meetings with Community Development Associations (CDA) with agreements reached on community development.

Historically, Ikhilor said Usen community started as a farm stead hence the need to carry such a community along in decision making on issues that affect their means of livelihood.

He further encouraged investors to engage in Corporate Social rlResponsibility (CSR) acts as well as put in place activities that promote job creation and general welfare of their host.

The Elawure of Usen, Oba Wilson Oluogbe II praised the Edo State Government for its intervention.

He appealed for communities to be carried along when critical decisions are being made, especially on issues that affect their livelihood.

The investors, included: Nimbel Shaw Limited; Professional Support Farms Limited and Steve Integrated Limited, commended Edo state government for the peaceful resolution of the matter.