In a bold step towards confronting the historical injustices of slavery, colonialism, and cultural exploitation, the Nigerian Senate Committee on Reparation and Repatriation has hosted a continental consultative forum with African diplomats at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja.
The high-level event, held on Monday, brought together envoys from across Africa to discuss pathways for reparative justice, the repatriation of looted cultural artifacts, and economic redress for the centuries-long exploitation of the continent.
Senate Reaffirms Commitment to Justice
Representing the Senate President, Senate Chief Whip Senator Mohammed Tahir Mongunu stated that the conversation on reparations and repatriation has become increasingly relevant on the global stage.
“The scars of slavery, colonialism, systemic injustice, and forced migration continue to define the African experience,” Mongunu declared, pledging the Senate’s commitment to legislative and diplomatic efforts addressing these past wrongs.
Ned Nwoko Leads the Call for African Unity
Senator Ned Nwoko, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparation and Repatriation, stressed the urgency of addressing the lingering legacies of colonization and demanding the return of stolen artifacts.
He emphasized the need for continental unity in reclaiming cultural identity, calling for a strategic coalition among African countries to demand both economic and historical restitution.
Powerful Performances Stir Emotion
A poignant moment of the forum came from a poetic performance by Rex Odoemenam, whose passionate delivery on Africa’s colonial suffering drew emotional responses from the audience, including Senator Victor Umeh, who described the performance as “a powerful reminder of Africa’s brutal past.”
Diplomats Share Regional Experiences
Ambassador Mohammed Fouad of Egypt backed the initiative, decrying the loss of Egypt’s ancient artifacts now held in Western museums.
- Ambassador Selestine Gervas Kekele of Tanzania revealed that while Germany returned human skulls, valuable items such as dinosaur fossils remain abroad, generating foreign revenue.
- Ambassador Maxwell Ranga of Zimbabwe lamented Africa’s continued economic exploitation, calling for African industrialization and self-reliance.
Senator Ipalibo Banigo warned against politicizing the reparations movement and urged Africans to embrace their shared history. “If we forget our history, we risk repeating it,” she said.
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Senator Ned Nwoko also questioned the lack of regional integration, highlighting the irony that African citizens still require international passports to move across borders within the continent.
Recognizing Contributors to the Reparations Movement
The forum acknowledged the efforts of several consultants and contributors to the Committee’s work, including:
- Dr. Mohammed Aminu
- Amb. Dr. Suleiman Momoh
- Barr. Charles Ude
- Barr. Eke Agbai, PhD
- Chukwuebuka Anyaduba
- Barr. Adaeze Anah
- Dr. Sylvanus Barnabas
- Rex E. Odoemenam
- Call to Action for African Diplomats
In closing, Senator Nwoko urged African diplomats to champion reparative justice in their home countries. He emphasized that the struggle for reparation and repatriation is a shared responsibility, requiring the collective will of African leaders, thinkers, and communities.
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