Segun Atanda/
In response to recent claims circulating in some media outlets, the Nigerian government has clarified that the country was not sidelined in the United Nations Human Rights Council elections held on October 9, 2024.
A statement issued by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, emphasized that Nigeria did not stand as a candidate in the 2024 elections, contrary to reports suggesting the country was snubbed.
According to Onanuga, the UN General Assembly elected 18 members to the Council for the 2025-2027 term, including Benin, Bolivia, Cyprus, Czechia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and others. The election was conducted via secret ballot to determine the incoming members tasked with promoting human rights globally.
Nigeria’s absence from the candidate list was a deliberate choice, in line with the country’s diplomatic strategy. The statement explained that Nigeria supported the regional endorsements of Benin and Gambia, both members of ECOWAS, as part of its continued leadership in promoting African unity.
“This strategic approach aligns with Nigeria’s long-standing diplomatic efforts to ensure Africa speaks with a united voice on the global stage,” Onanuga stated.
The statement also criticized what it described as inaccurate media reports, noting that similar falsehoods were spread in 2023 when it was erroneously reported that Nigeria had secured three votes despite not being a candidate.
Onanuga urged the media to verify their information with official sources such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before rushing to publish misleading reports. He called on Nigerians to refrain from disparaging the nation, particularly on sensitive international matters.
NewsmakeesNG learnt that President Tinubu’s administration has continued to prioritize Africa’s collective representation in global organizations, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening the continent’s presence on international platforms.
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