CCC Commends Niger Delta Dialogue, Condemns Sexual Abuses in IDP Camps

The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC) welcomes the recent meeting between the Federal Government and leaders of Niger Delta region. We believe that there is no issue of conflict that cannot be resolved through sincere dialogue and open mind. We urge both parties to keep this spirit alive and to ensure that whatever grievances can be resolved peacefully, in the interest of our dear country.

Without prejudice to whatever agreement was reached by both parties, the Centre believes that this is a step in the right direction that will go a long way towards calming nerves in the Niger Delta and bring peace to Nigeria.

The Centre condemns in its entirety, the reported cases of sexual exploitation in the IDP camps particularly in the North East. We consider it totally inhumane for any person to take advantage of the helpless situation of the displaced persons to sexually abuse them. This inhuman act has resulted in psychological, social and physical problems for the victims and the society. This is in addition to unwanted pregnancies in the camps and the spread of HIV.

The Centre however appreciates the prompt intervention of the Presidency which ordered a thorough investigation into the odious act. It is hoped that the police will give this assignment the seriousness and urgent attention it deserves. The culprits must be found and made to face the full wrath of the law.

The Centre also commends the setting up of the Presidential Committee on North East Initiative (PCNI) and the recent inauguration of members of the committee by President Muhammadu Buhari. The Centre hopes and indeed believes that the committee will work assiduously in line with its Strategic Implementation Framework in order to actualize the mandate of providing immediate succor to the IDPs and rebuilding of the region following years of devastation by the Boko Haram insurgency.

The Centre is ready and willing to partner the committee in any way to ensure timely implementation of the onerous task of rehabilitation, rebuilding and reintegrating of the north east region.

Signed by

Air Commodore Yusuf Anas (RTD)

Executive Secretary