August 2025 | Page 29 of 31

Nigeria Pardons Ken Saro-Wiwa and Ogoni Nine, 30 Years After Execution

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago07 mins

Lagos, Nigeria – On June 12, Nigeria’s Democracy Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu granted posthumous pardons to Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other environmental activists known as the Ogoni Nine, executed by the military regime of General Sani Abacha in 1995. The announcement came with national honours and a declaration: they are now national heroes. For many, it was a long-overdue vindication. For others, including the families of the executed men, it is too little, too late. Saro-Wiwa, a celebrated writer and leader of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), was convicted by a military tribunal for inciting the murder of four local chiefs—charges widely condemned as politically motivated. The execution, carried out by hanging on November 10, 1995, triggered international outrage. Nigeria was suspended from the Commonwealth, and countries including the U.S. imposed sanctions. “I want the convictions quashed, not pardoned,” said Noo Saro-Wiwa, Ken’s daughter, speaking from London. “A pardon suggests guilt. My father committed no crime.” A Writer Turned Activist Ken Saro-Wiwa once aspired to be remembered as a writer. He authored more than two dozen books, including the prescient short story Africa Kills Her Sun, a fictional account of a man facing execution. But his legacy was shaped by his real-life advocacy. In the 1990s, Saro-Wiwa led a non-violent campaign demanding environmental justice for Ogoniland, a small region in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta devastated by oil spills and gas flaring. In 1993, MOSOP mobilized 300,000 Ogonis to protest against Shell and the federal government. The scale of the protests prompted Shell to halt operations. The military responded with brutal force. Saro-Wiwa’s calls for autonomy and environmental reparations drew global attention—and local ire. Following a mob killing of four Ogoni leaders during a MOSOP rally in 1994, the military arrested Saro-Wiwa and eight others. Their trial, marred by irregularities and alleged torture, was condemned by Amnesty International as a “sham. International Outcry, but No Justice Despite appeals from global figures like Nelson Mandela and the Pope, the executions went ahead. Saro-Wiwa reportedly uttered, “Lord, take my soul, but the struggle continues,” before being hanged. In 2009, following a civil lawsuit in the U.S., Shell agreed to a $15.5 million out-of-court settlement with the families of the Ogoni Nine. The company denied wrongdoing, saying the payment was for legal fees and humanitarian aid. A separate case in The Hague filed by the widows of the executed men was dismissed in 2017. Meanwhile, a 2011 UN report found benzene levels in Ogoni water up to 900 times higher than safe limits. The clean-up project launched in 2012—Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP)—has made limited progress. Though Shell has contributed $270 million, critics say the Nigerian government has underfunded and neglected the initiative. Political Motives? For some, Tinubu’s timing raises suspicion. Nigeria is battling a financial crisis and seeking to boost oil production. Resuming operations in Ogoniland—halted since the 1993 protests—could generate 500,000 barrels of crude per day. “The pardon is political,” said Nubari Saatah, president of the Niger Delta Congress. “The state needs oil, so it needs Ogoni consent.” But consent seems unlikely. Many Ogonis remain wary of government promises. Old wounds remain unhealed, especially among the families of the four men whose deaths in 1994 led to the arrest of the Ogoni Nine. Tinubu’s pardon did not mention them. “Rather than bring healing, it’s reopened divisions,” Saatah said. The Legacy Lives On Now 49, Noo Saro-Wiwa has returned to Ogoniland several times. A travel writer based in London, she’s working on a new book about the environmental devastation in her ancestral land. Her family has suffered deeply—her brother and mother have since passed away—but she continues the struggle her father died for. “My father was a real David versus Goliath,” she said. “He made the world see Ogoni. What he did was incredible.” For Ogoni people, and for Nigeria, the question remains: Is symbolic honour enough, without justice or restitution?

Business

Dangote Refinery Appoints David Bird as CEO of Petroleum, Petrochemicals Division

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: August 2, 2025 The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has appointed David Bird as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of its petroleum and petrochemicals business. The appointment, which took effect in July 2025, was first reported by S&P Global on Friday. Bird’s arrival comes as the refinery seeks to scale up operations, resolve production challenges, and roll out an ambitious nationwide fuel distribution scheme already facing significant regulatory and logistical hurdles. A source at the company told TheCable that Bird is a mechanical engineer and an alumnus of Imperial College, London, with an MBA from Stanford University. He brings extensive global experience in the oil and gas industry. Prior to this appointment, Bird served as the head of Oman’s Duqm Refinery, and also held senior roles at Santos Ltd and Shell, including Vice President of Prelude FLNG, where he led operations on the world’s first floating LNG facility. He also chaired Shell Australia’s RAP board and headed operations at Shell’s largest refinery in Singapore — Pulau Bukom. Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Industries Limited, will continue to serve as chairman of the refining business while retaining his role as CEO of the broader Dangote Group, which spans cement, fertilizer, and sugar refining operations. In a LinkedIn post cited by S&P Global, Bird stated that his focus will be on driving maximum output, operational efficiency, and expanding Dangote’s market presence beyond Nigeria and into the wider African continent. His appointment marks a pivotal phase for the 650,000 barrels per day refinery, which has been gradually ramping up output since its commissioning by former President Muhammadu Buhari in May 2023. The refinery is expected to commence fuel distribution to end-users by August 15, 2025, using a fleet of 4,000 CNG-powered trucks, further positioning itself as a critical player in Africa’s energy landscape.

NNPC, Zuid Energies Partner on New CNG and LNG Plants in Ajaokuta

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

By Kamal Yalwa August 2, 2025 The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Gas Marketing Limited (NGML), a subsidiary of NNPC Limited, has signed a joint venture agreement with Zuid Energies Limited to construct compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants in Ajaokuta, Kogi State. The announcement was made during the Mobility-CNG Stakeholders Workshop in Abuja, themed “Deepening Industry Alignment for a Sustainable Mobility-CNG Sub-Sector.” The event brought together regulators and downstream operators to explore collaborative solutions for Nigeria’s energy transition and expansion of commercial gas opportunities. Under the agreement, the new gas infrastructure will include: According to a statement from the NNPC, the initiative underscores NGML’s commitment to “leveraging private sector partnerships to deliver innovative virtual pipeline solutions for efficient gas supply to off-grid and underserved areas.” The new project adds to a growing list of gas infrastructure developments in Ajaokuta. Earlier in January, NNPC began constructing five mini-LNG plants in the area with a combined target output of 97 mmscfd. These include: The Federal Government continues to prioritize CNG as part of its clean energy and mobility agenda, in line with its national gas expansion program.

MAN Urges Manufacturers to Seek Alternative Funding Amid Economic Strain

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: August 2, 2025 The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on its members to explore alternative sources of funding as the country grapples with persistent economic challenges and high interest rates. Speaking during the 40th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Ogun State branch of MAN, Chairman George Onafowokan highlighted the growing difficulty manufacturers face in accessing credit from commercial banks. He attributed this to the soaring Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), which stood at 27.5% as of May 2025, saying it has made loan repayments difficult and significantly eroded profit margins. Onafowokan urged manufacturers to consider innovative and non-traditional financing options to keep their businesses afloat and competitive under the current harsh economic conditions. Representing Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun at the event, Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Adebola Sofela, commended manufacturers for their resilience. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to enhancing the ease of doing business through policies such as tax harmonization and improved infrastructure development. Stakeholders at the event also used the occasion to advocate for the revival of quarterly interactive meetings between manufacturers and government agencies, the rehabilitation of internal roads in industrial hubs like Agbara and Ota, and a halt to multiple taxation, which they say continues to stifle business growth. The AGM served as a platform for robust dialogue between the private sector and government on how to revitalize manufacturing in the face of Nigeria’s ongoing economic headwinds.

Information Ministry Urges Calm Over Suspension of Badeggi Radio in Niger

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: August 2, 2025 has called for calm following concerns raised over the suspension of Badeggi FM, a radio station based in Minna, Niger State. The Ministry’s position was made known in a statement issued on Saturday by Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant (Media) to the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. The suspension of Badeggi FM was reportedly ordered by Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago during an expanded All Progressives Congress (APC) caucus meeting in Minna on August 1, which the Minister also attended. Governor Bago cited alleged unethical broadcasting and incitement against the government as reasons for the station’s closure. In response, the Information Ministry emphasized that the power to suspend broadcasting licenses lies solely with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), in accordance with Nigerian law. “While acknowledging the concerns raised, the Ministry notes that the suspension of broadcasting licenses falls within the purview of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), as stipulated by law,” the statement read. The Ministry welcomed the decision by the Niger State Government to report the matter to the NBC for proper investigation and resolution. The development has sparked debate among stakeholders in the media industry, with many urging due process and respect for regulatory frameworks.

One Year After Deadly Protests, Amnesty International Slams Nigerian Government Over Lack of Accountability

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: August 2, 2025 | Abuja One year after security forces reportedly killed at least 24 protesters during nationwide demonstrations against economic hardship, Amnesty International has condemned the Nigerian government’s continued failure to ensure justice and accountability. The human rights watchdog, in a statement issued on Friday to mark the anniversary of the 2024 protests, accused Nigerian police of denying well-documented allegations of extrajudicial killings, torture, and unlawful arrests. “Despite the gravity of these human rights violations, not a single member of the security forces has been prosecuted,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria. “Accountability remains elusive for the 24 peaceful protesters killed in Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, Borno, Niger and Kaduna states. Those behind these atrocities must be held to account.” The protests, which began in early August 2024 under the hashtag #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, were sparked by growing public anger over soaring fuel prices and runaway inflation, largely triggered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s sweeping economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and floating of the naira. Amnesty said its investigations confirmed that police fired live ammunition at close range—often targeting the head and torso—indicating a clear “shoot-to-kill” approach. The organisation also raised alarm over the “sham trials” of hundreds of protesters arrested during and after the demonstrations. Many of the arrested face charges ranging from inciting mutiny to calling for a military takeover and using WhatsApp to “levy war against the state.” Some were reportedly charged for chanting slogans such as “Tinubu must go.” “The Nigerian authorities are yet to take appropriate and effective measures to respect, protect, promote and fulfil the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly,” Sanusi said, while also accusing the government of continuing mass surveillance, intimidation, and arbitrary detention of protesters. Though some detainees—many of them minors—were released by presidential order following public outcry in late 2024, over 700 people still face trial. The Ministry of Justice did not respond to AFP’s request for comment on the allegations. While President Tinubu’s economic reforms have been hailed by some international observers as necessary for long-term growth, the short-term effects have devastated millions of Nigerians, pushing many into poverty and prompting widespread unrest. Amnesty reiterated its call for full investigations, transparent prosecutions, and compensation for victims’ families.

Africa’s Billionaire Boom Masks Rising Inequality – Oxfam Report Warns

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

August 2, 2025 | By Trend Brio Despite a surge in African billionaires, a new Oxfam report has revealed stark inequality across the continent, warning that the growing concentration of wealth among elites is worsening poverty and undermining economic progress for millions. Titled Africa’s Inequality Crisis and the Rise of the Super-Rich, the report shows that just four of Africa’s wealthiest individuals – including Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote and South Africa’s Johann Rupert – now hold a combined $57.4 billion, surpassing the total wealth of nearly 750 million Africans. The top 5% of Africans now control about $4 trillion in assets, while more than half the population lives in poverty. Nigeria and South Africa, the continent’s largest economies, exemplify the trend, where politically connected tycoons have amassed fortunes through privatisation and state-backed reforms. Critics point to Nigeria’s Dangote Group and South Africa’s BEE-linked moguls as symbols of “crony capitalism” – where political ties, rather than innovation, drive business success. While intended to foster domestic enterprise and Black economic empowerment, such policies have often entrenched elite capture, sidelining ordinary citizens. Oxfam and policy analysts are calling for urgent reforms, including wealth and income taxes on the richest Africans. A 1% wealth tax and 10% high-income levy could raise $66 billion annually – funds that could help close critical gaps in public services like education, healthcare, and electricity access. With unemployment and inequality rising, especially among youth and women, the report urges African governments to dismantle oligarchic structures and adopt equity-driven economic policies. “We, the neglected and disenfranchised 95 percent, stand against oligarchy,” columnist Tafi Mhaka writes, echoing growing calls for systemic change across the continent.

DR Congo, Rwanda Hold First Oversight Talks Following Peace Deal

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

By Kamal Yalwa | August 2, 2025 The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have convened the inaugural meeting of a joint oversight committee in Washington, marking a tentative step toward implementing a peace agreement signed in June. The African Union, Qatar, and the United States—key backers of the deal—participated in Thursday’s meeting, which aimed to monitor progress and maintain momentum toward peace in the conflict-ridden Great Lakes region. According to a joint statement released by both governments on Friday, the committee “discussed progress on implementing the agreement” signed during a high-profile summit hosted by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The June 27 accord, seen as a turning point after years of deadly conflict, pledged respect for territorial integrity and a halt to hostilities in eastern DRC. Implementation Lags Despite Initial Momentum Under the terms of the deal, Rwanda agreed to withdraw its troops from eastern DRC within 90 days, while both nations committed to establishing a joint security coordination mechanism within 30 days. However, that timeline has already begun to slip. More than a month after the agreement was signed, there has been no meeting of the joint security body, and operations targeting the DRC-based rebel group Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) have yet to commence. The withdrawal of Rwandan troops has also not begun. Despite these setbacks, U.S. Africa adviser Massad Boulos insisted the deal is not derailed. “There was no timeline for that,” Boulos said, referring to operations against the FDLR. “If you look at the chronology of what we’ve been able to do since April, it’s been extensive, on point, and very much in line with our aspirations.” Tensions Still Simmer on the Ground Military and diplomatic sources say that while the talks continue, armed groups on both sides are reinforcing positions. The Rwandan-backed M23 and Congolese-aligned Wazalendo militias have reportedly strengthened their presence along contested front lines. The peace agreement includes vague provisions on economic cooperation and mineral trade, but critics argue the deal lacks specifics on enforcement and verification, particularly regarding troop movements and disarmament timelines. While the oversight committee is designed to address such gaps and disputes, analysts say the fragile trust between Kigali and Kinshasa, combined with persistent insecurity, will test the deal’s durability in the months ahead.