Samoa deal: Nigeria signed its ‘death warrant’, says African Bar Association chief, Sonnie Ekwowusi

Key Points

• Contradicts National Law: Ekwowusi argues specific provisions in the agreement clash with Nigeria’s Constitution and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights.
• Unconsulted Signing: He criticises the lack of transparency, claiming Nigeria previously declined to sign due to reservations, but a diplomat signed it without consulting the National Assembly.
• Unclear Interpretation: Ekwowusi warns that disputed clauses remain and the agreement lacks clear interpretation procedures, making enforcement problematic.

 

Controversial Signing of the Samoa Deal

The signing of the Samoa Deal by Nigeria has sparked widespread controversy and backlash. Sonnie Ekwowusi, Chairman of the Human and Constitutional Rights Committee of the African Bar Association, has voiced strong opposition, describing the signing as a violation of Nigeria’s constitutional principles and a threat to its sovereignty.

In an interview on Arise TV on Friday, monitored by Arbiterz, Ekwowusi explained that the Samoa Deal contradicts key sections of Nigeria’s Constitution and the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights, both of which are integral to Nigerian law.

“It completely violates Chapter 2 of the Nigerian Constitution and contradicts Chapter 4, 1838 of the African Charter on Human and People’s Rights,” he stated.

Unconsulted Signing Raises Concerns

Ekwowusi expressed frustration over the manner in which the agreement was signed, highlighting that Nigeria had previously declined to sign due to specific provisions in the agreement.

“Prior to November 15, 2023, Nigeria had made its position clear that it was not going to sign because of certain provisions. We were surprised that on June 28, 2024, a diplomat in Brussels signed on behalf of Nigeria,” he revealed.

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Further adding to the controversy, Ekwowusi pointed out that the National Assembly was not consulted during the signing process.

“When we had a meeting with members of the National Assembly, including the chairmen of committees involved with treaties and protocols, they said they were not consulted. So, who was consulted in this whole process?” he questioned.

Contentious Provisions and Lack of Interpretation

The Samoa Deal includes several articles that Nigeria had objected to during negotiations. According to Ekwowusi, these provisions were not removed, and the agreement lacks clear interpretation status, making dispute resolution difficult.

“The agreement has no provision for reservations either, which means what we have just signed is like a death warrant,” he warned.

Ekwowusi also criticised the EU’s imposition of the agreement on African countries, arguing that it pushes cultural values and social issues, such as LGBTQ rights and comprehensive sexual education, that are not aligned with African cultural and moral values.

“We are different people. They should not tell us how to run our country and impose their cultural values on us,” he asserted.

Impact on Nigeria’s Sovereignty and Cultural Heritage

The signing of the Samoa Agreement has broader implications for Nigeria’s sovereignty and cultural heritage. Ekwowusi highlighted that the EU’s focus on social and cultural provisions, rather than trade or economic development, undermines Nigeria’s autonomy.

“From their perspective, it means the EU will now determine our actions. It’s like giving someone an open cheque,” he said.

Despite reassurances from some government officials, Ekwowusi remains skeptical about the agreement’s benefits to Nigeria. He stressed that Nigeria must withdraw its signature to protect its interests.

“Nigeria must unsign this agreement because it is detrimental to Nigerian interests,” he urged.

Reactions from National and Religious Leaders

The signing has also drawn criticism from religious leaders in Nigeria. During a meeting in Abuja, Muslim leaders expressed their strong opposition to the agreement, deeming it unacceptable.

“When we met with Muslim leaders, they were very angry and said this was unacceptable,” Ekwowusi noted.

A Call for Reconsideration

Ekwowusi emphasised the need for Nigeria to reconsider its position and demand the removal of the contentious provisions. He called on the Nigerian government to prioritise the nation’s cultural heritage and values in its international agreements.

“Africa has a cultural heritage, and whether they like it or not, that’s where we differ from other people,” he concluded.

The controversy surrounding the Samoa Deal highlights the complexities of international treaties and the importance of safeguarding national sovereignty and cultural values. As the debate continues, Nigerians await further clarification and action from their government.

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