By James Isaac
The Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation has announced plans to engage Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders to address injustices tied to the transatlantic slave trade and internal crises in Nigeria.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, representing Delta North, disclosed this during its inaugural meeting on Tuesday at the National Assembly. He emphasized the committee’s unique mandate and the importance of inclusive engagement to enhance awareness and participation.
Senator Nwoko revealed that a stakeholders’ meeting is scheduled for early next year to officially launch the committee’s activities and outline its objectives.
“This committee is a novel one, and we aim to foster sensitization through robust engagement with all stakeholders,” he stated.
The committee’s scope, he explained, addressed both international and local issues
He said “We are all aware of efforts by the late MKO Abiola in seeking reparations for the evils of the slave trade. Our focus includes demanding apologies and restitution from those who plundered our nation and inflicted untold hardship on our people.”
Beyond addressing the slave trade, the committee will examine internal injustices, including cases such as the Odi invasion and the Asaba massacre, where entire communities were devastated.
Senator Nwoko noted that affected families and communities could submit memoranda detailing their grievances, with the committee offering alternative conflict resolution mechanisms to avoid prolonged legal battles.
“This committee will provide a platform for all affected parties to express their concerns. The insights we gather will shape our recommendations to the government,” Nwoko added.
