Nigeria To Engage UN, AU, Seek Legal Redress At Int’l Courts On Repatriation Of Stolen Cultural Artifacts – Nwoko

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriations, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, on Wednesday said that the Nigeria would pursue legal redress through international courts as well as collaborate with traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and international partners, including the United Nations and the African Union on repatriation of cultural artifacts that were stolen from the country.

Nwoko gave the assurance at the maiden meeting of the senate committee held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

The meeting marked the official commencement of the committee’s work, which is expected to tackle some of the most pressing historical injustices and systemic grievances in the country.

Speaking at the meeting, Nwoko expressed delight over the composition of the committee, describing it as a group of accomplished individuals whose diverse backgrounds in politics, business, and public service make them well-suited for the task ahead.

He expressed confidence that their collective experience would drive the committee to success.

According to him, “Membership choice of this Committee is appropriate and justified given the reputation of individuals who have made their marks both in Politics, private, and public sectors of the economy.

“I am confident without fear of contradiction that this collection of Distinguished Senators who are members of this Committee shall bring their wealth of experiences, knowledge and exposure to bear on the Committee’s mandates.

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“There is no doubt in my mind therefore that the Committee will deliver on its core mandates with significance and high level of success.

It is on this note that I seek your unhindered cooperation and understanding as we navigate the water of this very important Committee”, the chairman stated.

The committee has been saddled with a significant mandate, including investigating historical wrongs done to communities and individuals across Nigeria and recommending appropriate reparations.

Another critical aspect of its work is the repatriation of cultural artifacts that were stolen from Nigeria and are currently held in foreign countries.

Senator Nwoko said that where necessary, the committee would pursue legal redress through international courts to ensure justice is served.

Speaking on the need for inclusivity, Senator Nwoko disclosed that the committee would collaborate with traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and international partners, including the United Nations and the African Union.

He also revealed that public hearings would soon be organized to engage stakeholders and outline the committee’s roadmap.

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While acknowledging the late formation of the committee, Senator Nwoko urged his colleagues not to see it as a setback but as an opportunity to rise to the occasion.

“Although, the formation of this committee came late, this is a call to service and I totally believe that we will not disappoint the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”, he said.