******NIDO Africa Chairman Calls for Unity of Purpose, Condemns Destructive Tribal Politics
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Africa has issued a fervent appeal for national unity, urging influential socio-cultural organisations across Nigeria, including Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Oodua Peoples Congress, and the Arewa Consultative Forum, to set aside tribal politics and join a collective struggle against human trafficking and other pervasive societal vices.
Professor Jude Osakwe, Continental Chairman of NIDO Africa, delivered the impassioned message from Abuja, emphasizing the critical need for a united front to combat these complex issues. He specifically warned against the destructive impact of tribal politics and personal attacks, which he described as counterproductive to national progress. “Playing tribal politics will not help us. Issues of trying to bring down individuals in order to score political goals will not help us,” he cautioned, advocating for a focus on the common good over narrow interests.
The NIDO Africa chairman underscored the severity of the problem, revealing that over 1,500 Nigerians have been rescued in Ghana and other parts of Africa through collaborative efforts. He stressed that the magnitude of the challenge necessitates a broader coalition, urging socio-cultural organizations across the country to lend their support. “We need more hands. We should not leave the fight to government alone,” Professor Osakwe stated, emphasizing that state actors alone cannot effectively combat the complex and pervasive issue of human trafficking.
In highlighting examples, Professor Osakwe commended Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), for her commitment and consistent approach that transcends ethnic and political boundaries. He specifically lauded her remarkable responsiveness and dedication to rescue operations, stating: “Anytime we rescue victims, she was always there to assist. We got used to calling on her because her commission is always responsive to our calls.”
The NIDO Africa chairman emphasized Dr. Dabiri-Erewa’s humanitarian work, noting that her assistance transcends political, ethnic, and regional considerations – a quality that exemplifies true leadership in Nigeria’s fight against human trafficking. Professor Osakwe highlighted how Dr. Dabiri-Erewa’s consistent support has made NiDCOM the go-to agency for diaspora organizations facing crisis situations, contrasting this reliability with other agencies that have been less responsive to urgent calls for assistance.
Professor Osakwe called on other influential socio-cultural organizations across Nigeria to emulate her non-partisan approach in joining the collective struggle against human trafficking and other societal vices. This period marked by divisive tribal politics, Dr. Dabiri-Erewa’s approach serves as a powerful example of how national service should transcend ethnic and political boundaries. Her work embodies the unity that Nigeria needs to effectively address complex challenges like human trafficking.
Professor Osakwe expressed concern about the troubling trend where individuals who previously praised Dr. Dabiri-Erewa’s exceptional service to diasporans are now turning against her for political reasons. “It is surprising and disappointing that the very people who have been praising her tremendous work for Nigerians in the diaspora are now the ones turning against her,” he observed. This pattern exemplifies exactly the kind of destructive politics that NIDO Africa warns against – where personal and political considerations override recognition of genuine service to the nation.
The NIDO Africa chairman emphasized that Dr. Dabiri-Erewa’s extensive contributions to diaspora welfare should not be diminished or overlooked due to political expediency. Her consistent track record of rescuing Nigerians in distress, regardless of their ethnic or political background, represents the standard of leadership that should be celebrated and protected, not undermined by partisan interests.
Professor Osakwe reiterated that human trafficking affects all Nigerians, regardless of their origin, and therefore requires a united, pan-Nigerian response. NIDO Africa’s appeal serves as a crucial reminder that addressing complex societal challenges like human trafficking demands collective responsibility, transcending political and ethnic affiliations for the greater good of the nation.