| Niger Delta News, February 2007 |
Stakeholder Democracy News, Volume 2, Issue 2. 9th March 2007 Violence / Conflict / Kidnapping Issues
Analysis The clashes in Rivers State are reminiscent of violence around 2003 elections, but the indiscriminate use of weapons has resulted in most casualties being bystanders. There are signs that State politicians are doing little to dissuade gangs from violently displays of their importance ahead of elections. Some politicians appear to be fuelling problems, with purchases and stockpiling of weapons and ammunition. The lack of a visible response by government to security problems in Rivers State is prompting conversations amongst all types of organisations about options for relocation from the State. The reduction in the number of kidnappings is not an indication of an improved sense of security, as the number of targets has also reduced drastically due to withdrawal of staff and 'lockdowns'. Foreign missions have continued to toughen travel advice. The kidnapping of a Filipino woman and Lebanese construction workers heightens concern about non-oil industry expatriates. Issue
Analysis Some Niger Delta constituencies are affected by continuing controversies over candidates. The Delta State senatorial position appears unsettled amidst serious local resistance to the wife of the PDP National Chairman being nominated. In Rivers State there are still questions over the governorship nominee Celestine Omehia, who is seen as close to the Governor, by key groups wishing for a clean break with the current administration. In Bayelsa there is serious discomfort over a governorship candidate who also seems to owe his success to national linkages: to oil minister Edmund Dakouru. With some questionable candidates in key positions it is important that the PDP does not further damage confidence in democracy by attempting to rig elections in favour of unpopular candidates. It now seems changes will be possible to March 12th. After this date election observation, manifesto promises, and integrity of elections must be the key themes for external actors. Both domestic and particularly international election observers are concerned about security for monitoring elections. International bodies are being urged to maintain a presence amid fears that domestic observers could become dangerously isolated. Corruption / Governance / Transparency / Accountability Issue
Analysis The political turbulence in Rivers State that has continued since the EFCC arrested State Assembly Speaker, Rotimi Amaechi, led to an unprecedented and heated debate over the 2007 state budget in the State Assembly. This was short lived, with the Assembly swiftly passing the bill four days later without further discussion. This was after the intervention of the State Governor, Peter Odili. Rivers State continued its heated denunciation of the HRW 'Chop Fine' report on local government, and welcomed a delegation of NGOs who would review the 'real' situation in the state. Local groups have pointed out that the leader of the delegation was the former director of media in the Governor's Presidential campaign. This controversy has helped highlight the importance of Local Government. All concerned parties should look for opportunities to pressure both the Federal Government and State governments (who have direct responsibility) for serious improvements and attention to this area in all of the Niger Delta states. Local Government elections are also due in 2007, although the dates remain unclear and may vary state by state. Sustainable Development / Environment Issue
Analysis Bayelsa State deserves credit for some signs of intent to persevere with its Bayelsa Partnership initiative, even during the election period, while nothing has been heard of the RSSDP. Y'Adua has correctly identified an issue close to the hearts of Niger Delta communities. Without power, small businesses routinely fail due to unmanageable costs. Nigeria's electricity generation still stands at around 3,000 MW – around 150 watts per person using current census figures. |
