Nigeria Rallies IPU Assembly For Action On Humanitarian Crisis In Gaza
The Nigerian delegation at the ongoing 148th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, Switzerland led by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Nigeria Senate, has called on action to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
This was disclosed in a statement by the House Spokesperson, Akin Rotimi Jr on Monday.
He said, the Nigerian delegation was commended by the Parliamentarian that were drawn from all parts of the world for making the bold move on humanitarian grounds.
According to the statement, the call was made amidst contending interests and intrigues characterised by divergence among established and emerging powers on global order.
It added that, the Nigerian delegation stood firm in rallying parliamentarians from across the world to uphold the basic tenets of humanity as Senator Akpabio presented a compelling appeal during the debate on the inclusion of an emergency item into the IPU Assembly agenda.
Sen. Akpabio urged members to set aside their ego and differences to work collectively towards drafting an all-encompassing resolution which showcased Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to global peace and humanitarian principles.
He said, “This is a lone voice from Nigeria. We tried our best in Angola and we failed to lend a collective voice towards what is happening in Gaza. Today, the world is very expectant.
“We must drop our ego. It has nothing to do with which country brings a proposal. The basic tenets of humanity demand that we leave here with resolutions for the rest of the world: to show that we have humane feelings in us”.
The Nigerian delegation, comprised of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong, Osita Ngwu, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, and Ibrahim Dankwambo, alongside Reps. Victor Abang, Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala, and Marie Ebikake.
It could be recalled that, the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, a Member of the Nigerian Delegation, had last October, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to Parliamentary Action for Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16).
He urged IPU members to work relentlessly towards achieving it. He emphasised that a crisis in any part of the world is a crisis for all, reflecting Nigeria’s proactive approach to international affairs.
The 148th IPU Assembly, themed “Parliamentary Diplomacy: Building Bridges for Peace and Understanding,” provides a crucial platform for delegates to deliberate and exchange views on pressing global issues.
The Nigerian delegation’s advocacy for the inclusion of an emergency item on the IPU agenda, leading to a substantive debate on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, has earned them widespread praise and admiration.
The House of Representatives commends the Nigerian delegation for their unwavering dedication and the international acclaim they have received.
It stated that, the move underscores Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to global peace, security, and humanitarian values.
