LETTER:We must not neglect Nigeria
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.From Ms Elizabeth Mckean
Sir: Monday 12 June marks the second anniversary of the annulled presidential elections in Nigeria. Since then, many opponents of the military regime have been arrested, including the elected President, Chief Abiola. A constitutional conference, supposedly set up to steer Nigeria back to civilian rule, voted in April for indefinite military rule. Hardly surprising, as most of the conference members were appointed by the regime.
There is increasing concern about the risks of Nigeria descending into conflict. Political, religious, economic and regional tensions are rising and have prompted observers to express their concerns. The respected US organisation TransAfrica has warned that Nigeria is flirting with civil war. Meanwhile, the Nigerian government disregards international human rights law and remains vague about transferring power back to civilians.
Time and again the international community has ignored similar tensions and warnings of impending conflict. When we have responded it has been with too little, too late: Bosnia, Somalia and Rwanda have shown this only too clearly. Similar neglect of Africa's most populous country could, in the words of the Rev Jesse Jackson, result in a disaster "50 times worse" than Rwanda.
The June European Council meeting provides an opportunity for Britain to take a leading role in discussing this issue and agreeing action to prevent conflict in Nigeria. After all, when he was in Cape Town, the Prime Minister spoke of the need for "an entirely new effort at preventive diplomacy" in Africa. There is no more deserving case for our efforts for preventive action than Nigeria.
Yours faithfully,
ELIZABETH MCKEAN
Saferworld
London, WC1
9 June
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments