The United Nations and the African Union Commission have both pledged their support to President Goodluck Jonathan in the fight against terrorism in nothern Nigeria attributed to members of the radical Islamic sect Boko Haram.
UN Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon and AUC chairperson, Dr. Jean Ping, assured Jonathan that both international bodies will provide backing.
They made the assurances during opening remarks at the opening of the 18th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Ki-moon said he will be working closely with the AU to address what he called transnational challenges in West Africa including terrorism, illicit drug trafficking and the rise of piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
He said, “With respect to Nigeria, I am deeply troubled by the indiscriminate and unacceptable violent attacks. No cause justifies terror.
“We stand in solidarity with the authorities and the people of Nigeria for democratic and accountable governance.”
He urged African leaders to take the preventive approach, dealing with the increasing tensions in their various countries before it escalates.
“Events have proved that repression is a dead-end. Police power is no match for people power seeking dignity and justice.
“The women and men protesting in streets and public squares across the region are both an inspiration and a reminder.
“A reminder that leaders must listen to their people…that all of us must do more,” he added.
Ki-Moon noted the importance of trade and investment to the growth of Africa, but said the continent’s future also hinged on investments in civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights.
He condemned discrimination based on gender and sexual orientation in Africa, often ignored and often times encouraged in the many African nations.
Ping on his part regretted that over the past months, the continent has witnessed a resurgence of terrorism, particularly in Nigeria.
“I take this opportunity to reiterate the strong condemnation by the AU of the criminal attacks perpetrated by Boko Haram and other terrorist groups, and to reiterate our support for the efforts of the government of Nigeria,” he said.
He commended the progress made in parts of the continent and efforts to create calm, but admits there is still a long way to go.
