Nigeria Integrity Watch Criticizes SERAP’s Appeal to the UN
Nigeria Integrity Watch, a coalition of civil society organizations, has expressed strong disapproval of the Socio-Economic Rights and Responsibilities Project’s (SERAP) appeal to UN Secretary-General António Guterres for a report on Nigeria’s security situation to be submitted to the UN Security Council. The coalition believes that instead of scrutinizing the Nigerian government, SERAP should focus its efforts on combating those who finance terrorism.
Concerns Over Negative Impacts on Nigeria’s Global Standing
In a statement issued by National Convener Dr. John Samuel Nangi, the group termed SERAP’s stance as disproportionate and counterproductive, warning that it could tarnish Nigeria’s image on the international stage. Nangi emphasized that amplifying the security challenges facing Nigeria at a UN level could adversely impact ordinary citizens who are not linked to the current instability.
Advocating for Targeted Focus on Terrorism Financing
Dr. Nangi urged SERAP to redirect its focus toward those accused of financing terrorism and violent criminal activities instead of generalizing the situation and depicting Nigeria as a nation overwhelmed by chaos. “To effectively contribute to the fight against insecurity, SERAP should aim to expose individuals involved in terrorist financing through the appropriate international channels,” he remarked.
Highlighting Government Efforts Against Crime
The coalition argued that the federal government remains committed to allocating resources and personnel to combat terrorism and other criminal activities throughout the country. Despite ongoing security challenges, they asserted that depicting the government as complicit in terrorism misrepresents the reality and ignores the relentless efforts of security forces.
Call for Accountability from SERAP
Nigeria Integrity Watch further questioned SERAP’s apparent silence regarding individuals who have engaged in negotiations with armed groups. Nangi stated that organizations advocating for accountability should apply uniform standards and refrain from selective activism, insisting that the focus should remain on those funding criminal activities rather than vilifying the state.
National Unity as a Key to Tackling Insecurity
Nangi pointed out that the enemies of Nigeria are those who finance and support criminal elements, not the government, which daily invests in protecting its citizens. He asserted that reporting the federal government to the international community for terrorist activities is misleading and potentially detrimental to ongoing efforts to improve national security.
Encouragement for Constructive Engagement
The coalition acknowledged the prevalent security concerns and urged civil society organizations to engage constructively, supporting initiatives aimed at bolstering security institutions. Nangi reiterated that criticism of government policies should be founded on evidence and pursued through proper institutional channels. The fight against terrorism, he concluded, calls for national unity, collaboration, and responsible advocacy rather than actions that might undermine the nation’s reputation.
