Senate Committee on Reparations Vows to Address Historical Injustices and Internal Crises

The Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriations has pledged to address the lingering effects of the transatlantic slave trade and internal injustices within Nigeria.

The committee also plans to engage Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders in exploring ways to demand restitution and compensation for historical and contemporary wrongs.

Speaking to journalists after the committee’s inauguration on Tuesday, its chairman, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, emphasized the need for public orientation to garner support for the committee’s objectives.

He described the initiative as groundbreaking in the legislative history of Nigeria.

“We are working towards hosting a stakeholders’ meeting early next year to unveil the committee to the public and outline our responsibilities.

This committee is novel, but there is a critical need for it both locally and internationally,” Nwoko stated.

He referenced past efforts by late Chief MKO Abiola to advocate for reparations, emphasizing the importance of seeking apologies and restitution from nations and entities that participated in and benefited from the slave trade.

Nwoko also outlined the committee’s broader mandate, which includes addressing internal injustices within Nigeria.

He highlighted examples such as the Odi massacre, the Asaba massacre, and other instances where entire communities were brutalized or displaced.

“The committee is tasked with identifying instances of inhuman treatment against individuals and communities.

We will receive memoranda from affected families and communities, take evidence of the damages, and recommend appropriate compensation to the government,” he explained.

Nwoko further noted that the committee will also focus on environmental injustices, particularly in communities devastated by oil exploration and pollution.

“It’s not just about historical injustices. Communities affected by oil exploration and pollution can also bring their grievances to the committee.

We will listen to them and make recommendations for compensation to the government,” he added.

The senator assured Nigerians that the 10th Senate would fully support the committee’s efforts to ensure justice and reconciliation.

He urged citizens and stakeholders to actively participate in the process, emphasizing that restitution and reparations are long overdue.