WRITTEN QUESTION E-1380/01

by Eija-Riitta Korhola (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(7 May 2001)

Subject: Human rights situation in Nigeria

Some states in northern Nigeria have adopted Islamic religious law (the Sharia). This has led to serious unrest and violence in which thousands of civilians died last year. There is a real possibility of civil war and of unrest spreading to the whole continent. Nigeria's political leaders do not seem aware of the seriousness of the country's political situation when they try to encourage international inward investment. It seems that at present the EU is the only actor on the international scene strong enough to persuade Nigeria's political leaders to tackle this problem decisively, and seek a solution.

What does the EU intend to do to remedy the serious situation in Nigeria?

Does the EU intend to take the situation in Nigeria into account in its policies on business, investments and trade?

Answer given by Mr Nielson on behalf of the Commission

(20 July 2001)

The adoption of Islamic religious law (Sharia) has led to serious ethnic and religious violence in Nigeria and the question of Sharia may lead to further unrest and political agitation. Sharia is popular in certain states (predominantly in the North) and has been used as a political tool in the absence of social and economic programmes to improve the living standards of the population. It is certainly part of a wider political power struggle between different areas of the country (mostly over resource control and allocation). President Obasanjo has denounced punishments such as amputation as a violation of Nigeria's constitution and of human rights but is avoiding a legal challenge to Sharia as this would certainly lead to an increased risk of conflict. He is currently seeking a political solution by a low-key approach.

It should, however, be noted that full Sharia exists in a relatively few states in the Federation and seems unlikely to be a catalyst for potential civil war as opposed to limited civil unrest. It is one of several factors affecting the stability of Nigeria. There are no signs that the issue of Sharia itself will have spill over effects affecting either the region or the whole continent.

Nigeria is keen to attract international investment and their efforts to do so should be both encouraged and assisted. They have made significant advances in a relatively short time but the legacy of military rule means that economic systems and practices have to be completely revamped. The signing

of a Stand-by Agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last year shows their commitment to economic reform and the wish to establish a satisfactory economic policy record. This is, however a lengthy process and confidence for investment will increase in Nigerian only when results become clearer. This is why the Union and other international organisations attempt to take a long-term perspective as opposed to short-term measures, which are likely to be ineffective. There have been too many false starts in Nigeria.

In the light of the Cotonou Agreement, the Community is seeking to address business, investment, trade and developmental issues in Nigeria. Obviously Sharia is one of the factors in this equation and Union concerns for the human rights situation is part of this dialogue but this must be taken forward in a sensible way due to the extreme political sensitivity of the matter.

The Union has, via a declaration by the Presidency (30 January, 2001) called upon the government to respect international human rights covenants and reaffirmed its willingness to support the consolidation of democracy and respect for human rights. This support is planned to be part of future assistance to Nigeria particularly via the strengthening of civil society.