Nigeria: Sliding Back To Pariah Status


• As Indicated By Travel Alerts From  Foreign Govts

AN often-quoted Hegelian notion talks about history repeating itself, first as tragedy, then later as farce. In relation to the Nigerian conundrum of failed leadership, and its implication for the perception of the country in the international community, Hegel’s postulation seems truer than ever before.

First, it was Ambassador John Campbell, the United States envoy to Nigeria between 2004 and 2007 (now of a Fellow at the Council of Foreign Relations) that started off the alarm bells about the possibility of Nigeria’s disintegration.

In a September 9, 2010 article for the US Council on Foreign Relations, Campbell posited that “the lack of elite consensus” in the build-up to the 2011 polls, and possible backlash should zoning be jettisoned, could spell Nigeria’s doom.

As expected, Campbell’s prediction did not go down well with Abuja. Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States, Professor Adebowale Adefuye, immediately mounted a counter-offensive to ‘redeem’ Nigeria’s dented image, and portray Campbell as a rabble-rouser.

However, the current wave of insecurity in the country, as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency, appears to be confirming the predictions of Campbell and other earlier prophets of Nigerian doom.

As a result of relentless bombings of high profile targets by the radical Islamic sect, Nigeria has been on the receiving end of an unprecedented number of travel advisories. At the last count, there have been travel advisories from the United States, Canada and Australia, all warning their citizens to be wary of certain places in Nigeria.

Earlier, the United Nations had suspended key operations in Nigeria following the audacious bombing of its building in Abuja on August 26. The United States also named some specific Abuja hotels, which it warned its citizens to stay away from.

With the current climate of fear, and the consequent negative perception of the country in an international arena where image is everything, there are fears that the world’s most populous black nation is sliding back to its days as a pariah.

Although, unlike the dark days of the despotic and sanguinary dictatorship of General Sani Abacha, when Nigeria was suspended from key international organisations like the Commonwealth, this time around, Nigeria is being kept at arms length. The travel advisories, many worry, could have as much effects as the sanctions that were slammed on the country during the Abacha years.

Specifically, the drive for foreign investment, and inflow of key technical assistance from bilateral and multilateral partners, are being badly affected by the current leprous image Nigeria is projecting in the comity of nations.

But underneath all these security alerts are other warnings dealing with alleged fraudulent practices by Nigerians; the prevalence of HIV/AIDS; Bird Flu; traffic management and police reported extortions on the highways, among others — all boiling down to how foreigners see Nigeria and Nigerians in negative light.

Below are extracts of such alerts for Canada, United States, Australia and Britain:



Canada to citizens: Consult before traveling to Nigeria

SPECIFICALLY, Canada, in a November 5 statement, No 332 by Foreign Minister, John Baird, referred to “deadly violence in Nigeria.”

While condemning the bombing by Boko Haram in Yobe State, he called on Canadians travelling to or residing in Nigeria to regularly “consult the Nigeria Travel Report for updated information.”

Unlike the Canadians, the US State Department, through its Bureau of Consular Affairs, did not bother about couching its statement in diplomatic niceties. It went on straight to sound a serious warning to its citizens traveling to Nigeria.

US: Risk of attacks against Western targets high

THE statement read: “The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Nigeria, and continues to recommend U.S. citizens avoid all but essential travel to the Niger Delta states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers; the Southeastern states of Abia, Edo(sic), Imo; the city of Jos in Plateau State, Bauchi and Borno States in the northeast; and the Gulf of Guinea because of the risks of kidnapping, robbery, and other armed attacks in these areas.

“Violent crime committed by individuals and gangs, as well as by persons wearing police and military uniforms, remains a problem throughout the country. This notice replaces the Travel Warning for Nigeria dated October 19, 2010, to update information on recent violent activity and crime in Nigeria.”

Consequently, the alert reminded that on August 26, 2011, a suicide bombing at the UN Headquarters in Abuja killed 23 people and wounded more than 80 other individuals. This attack, it explained, was the first against an international organisation and the fourth bombing in Abuja during the past year.

“It followed a similar bombing against the Nigerian Police Force Headquarters ten weeks earlier that killed five individuals on June 16. These bombings were in addition to bombings elsewhere in Maiduguri, Suleja, and Jos throughout the last year. “

“The statement continued: The risk of additional attacks against Western targets in Nigeria remains high. In December 2010, a bomb exploded near an Abuja “fish bar,” killing several people and injuring many others.

“Also in December 2010, several explosive devices detonated in Jos, Plateau State, and alleged members of an extremist group attacked police and others in Maiduguri, Borno State, leading to significant casualties.

“In October 2010, two car bombs detonated in downtown Abuja during Independence Day celebrations, killing ten and wounding many others. Since March 2010, five improvised explosive devices (IEDs) have detonated in the Niger Delta region, causing one to three reported casualties in each case.

“Nigeria is a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society in which different ethnic and religious groups often coexist in the same geographic area.

“Travelers throughout the country should be aware that, in areas where such circumstances prevail, there is the potential for ethnic or religious-based disturbances. The States of Bauchi, Borno, and Plateau have experienced violence by fringe sects or inter-ethnic groups in the past year.

“Violent crime committed by individuals and gangs, as well as by some persons wearing police and military uniforms, is an ongoing problem throughout the country, especially at night. U.S. citizen visitors and residents have experienced armed muggings, assaults, burglary, carjacking, violation, kidnappings, and extortion — often involving violence.

“Home invasions remain a serious threat, with armed robbers accessing even guarded compounds by scaling perimeter walls; following, or tailgating, residents or visitors arriving by car into the compound; and subduing guards and gaining entry into homes or apartments.

“Armed robbers in Lagos also access waterfront compounds by boat. U.S. citizens, as well as Nigerians and other expatriates, have been victims of armed robbery at banks and grocery stores and on airport roads during both daylight and evening hours. Law enforcement authorities usually respond slowly or not at all, and provide little or no investigative support to victims.

“U.S. citizens, Nigerians, and other expatriates have experienced harassment and shakedowns at checkpoints and during encounters with Nigerian law enforcement officials. Traveling outside of major cities after dark is not recommended due to both crime and road safety concerns.

“There are regular reports of piracy off the coast of Nigeria in the Gulf of Guinea. Armed gangs have boarded both commercial and private vessels to rob travelers. The Nigerian Navy has limited capacity to respond to criminal acts at sea,” said the statement



Australian to Citizens:You could be caught in Nigeria’s violence

FROM Australia too, an advice has come to citizens urging a reconsideration of any travel to Nigeria. The advice reads: “We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Nigeria at this time due to the very high threat of terrorist attack, the high risk of kidnapping, the unpredictable security situation, the heightened risk of violent civil unrest and the high level of violent crime.

“If you do decide to travel to Nigeria, you should exercise extreme caution. The security situation could deteriorate without warning and you could be caught up in violence directed at others.

“Following the attack on United Nations House in Abuja on 26 August 2011, media reports suggest terrorists may be planning further attacks in Nigeria and targeting churches, mosques and national institutions. Security has been tightened at many public buildings in Abuja.

“There has been an increase in violent attacks in Nigeria since October 2010. Continued reporting indicates terrorists may be planning attacks against a range of targets, including domestic and foreign government institutions and against Western interests.

“Targets frequented by Westerners may include major hotels, cinemas, places of worship, bars and restaurants and densely populated urban centres. Locations frequented by foreigners have been attacked in the past and may be targeted in the future, including in Abuja.

“There were a number of violent incidents before and during the 2011 elections. There has been an increase in localised political tension and the security situation in some areas in Nigeria remains fragile.

“Curfews remain in place in some states and further curfews could be imposed quickly and with limited notice should the security situation start to deteriorate. You should monitor local media for possible restrictions.

“You should be aware that there is a risk of serious inter-communal violence and unrest throughout the country, particularly in the central and northern regions of Nigeria. You should avoid all protests, rallies and demonstrations, as they may turn violent.

“We strongly advise you not to travel to the riverine area in Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers (including Port Harcourt and Bonny Island), Abia State, Akwa Ibom and Anambra States in south-eastern Nigeria because of continuing militant activity, the high risk of kidnapping, armed robbery and other armed attacks against foreign oil companies and personnel, localised conflict and violent civil unrest.

“We strongly advise you not to travel to Borno and Plateau States because of the volatile security situation, including ongoing inter-communal tensions and frequent violent attacks. If you are in Borno or Plateau State, you should consider leaving.

“If, despite our advice not to travel to these areas, you decide to go to or stay in these regions, you should ensure you have adequate and continuous close personal protection from a professional security service. The ability of the Australian Government to provide consular services to Australians in these areas may be severely limited.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed a human death from avian influenza in Nigeria. See the Health Issues section below for advice to Australians travelling to or resident in Nigeria.

“Given the unpredictable security situation in Nigeria, we strongly recommend that you register your travel and contact details with us, so we can contact you in an emergency.

Be a smart traveller. Before heading overseas: organise comprehensive travel insurance and check what circumstances and activities are not covered by your policy subscribe to this travel advice to receive free email updates each time it’s reissued.”

The Australians reckon that there is a very high threat from terrorism in Nigeria, noting that in the past, international terrorist groups had called for attacks in Nigeria, including against the Nigerian Government.

“Following the attack on United Nations House in Abuja on 26 August 2011, media reports suggest terrorists may be planning further attacks in Nigeria and targeting churches, mosques and national institutions. Security has been tightened at many public buildings in Abuja.

“Australians in all parts of Nigeria are advised to exercise enhanced security vigilance. See our Travel Bulletin for more information. You should avoid any large gatherings and demonstrations as they may turn violent and could be targeted at perceived western interests.

“There has been an increase in violent attacks in Nigeria since October 2010, including bombings of places frequented by Westerners.

“Reliable information as of early August 2011 indicates that militants continue to plan attacks on public places in Nigeria, including South African assets in the oil, telecommunications and banking industries. Attacks are likely to occur with little or no warning. Previously, militant groups such as MEND have threatened to attack major infrastructure and industry centres. Previous attacks have targeted public places.

Recent examples of terrorist attacks include:

• On 26 August 2011, an attack on the UN compound in Abuja reportedly killed over 20 people and left many wounded.

• On 10 July 2011, a bomb attack on a church in Suleja on the outskirts of Abuja caused a number of injuries.

• On 26 June 2011, explosions at a bar in Maiduguri killed more than 25 people.

• On 16 June 2011, a suicide car bombing at police headquarters in Abuja killed at least four people and injured a number of others.

• On 31 December 2010, explosions at a restaurant in Abuja frequented by foreigners killed at least four people and injured nine others.

The ability of the Australian Government to provide consular services to Australians in these areas may be severely limited.

Crime: There is a high level of serious crime throughout Nigeria. Kidnapping, violent assault, armed robbery, banditry, violation, and carjacking are prevalent across Nigeria. You should pay strict attention to your personal safety and security at all times.

Crime increases at night in most areas, particularly in Lagos and on highways. We strongly advise you not to travel after dark. The number of authorised and unauthorised checkpoints in city centres also increases at night and requests to pay on-the-spot fines are not uncommon.



British Government Alerts

THERE is a high threat from terrorism in Nigeria, so says a recent British travel alert on Nigeria. The alert went on: “In July 2009, violent clashes took place between militants and security forces in some parts of Borno, Bauchi, Kano, Yobe and Katsina States.

“In February 2010, there were violent disturbance in Sokoto and Kazaure in Jigawa State. If you are travelling in northern Nigeria, you should take extra precautions and avoid crowds. Violence could erupt quickly and without warning.

“Travellers are advised against all but essential travel to Jos and Plateau State. Serious civil unrest is ongoing in Jos and surrounding districts. Though there is a heavy security presence, communal tensions are high and there are reports of vigilante mobs. There is a curfew in force between 18.00 and 06.00.

“There is also a risk of kidnapping in other states in southeast Nigeria. On 17 March 2007, two Chinese nationals were abducted at Nnewi, Anambra State.

“Visitors are advised against all travel to riverine areas of Cross River State (i.e. the river and swamp locations on or close to, the coast accessible only by boat, but not by road). They are also advised against all but essential travel to Akwa Ibom State because of the high risk of kidnapping, armed robbery and other armed attacks. Since 30 December 2007, a curfew (1800-0600) has been in place in the Okrika Local Government Area, Rivers State.

“It is advised that the security situation in Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers States makes them unsafe for visitors and it is therefore advised for visitors to leave. If you stay, you do so at your own risk and should take professional security advice.

“There was a further round of gang related violence in Port Harcourt on 16 August, with incidents across the city. Since 17 August 2007, the Nigerian authorities have imposed a nighttime curfew on the city. On 1 January 2008, there were nineteen reported fatalities in Port Harcourt when armed militants attacked two police stations and a hotel.

“It is advised against all but essential travel to Akwa Ibom State because of the high risk of kidnapping, armed robbery and other armed attacks. Visitors should maintain a high level of vigilance at all times, observe the strictest security measures and not travel unnecessarily. If travelling by road, you should use fully protected transport.

“The most common problem for travellers is scam artists trying to extract money.

“Violent crime is prevalent in the south of the country, including Lagos.

Outbreaks of Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Nigeria have resulted in one human fatality. As a precaution, it is advised to avoid live animal markets, poultry farms and other places where you may come into contact with domestic, caged or wild birds; and ensure poultry and egg dishes are thoroughly cooked.

“This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing.


http://www.guardiannewsngr.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=67431:nigeria-sliding-back-to-pariah-status&catid=1:national&Itemid=559

Its not new to us,the chinese are coming and will come.The chinese are better

The thing i love about this piece, it simply paints a true picture of the Nigerian security situation. The country isn't safe and our govt has resorted to "divide and confuse" by misinforming us or painting rosy picture of the situation at hand. NIGERIA NEEDS HELP FROM GOD SERIOUSLY, WE NEED INTERVENTION!!!

It paints a picture of Nigeria that is becoming a desolate land like Somalia.A Nigeria that is on a downward spin.A Nigeria that is plaque by ignorance and indiscipline.

A nigeria that is at war.

The only way out is discipline.People got to be responsible,accountable,reasonable,productive and progressive.Anything other than discipline is doom.

redsun:

It paints a picture of Nigeria that is becoming a desolate land like Somalia.A Nigeria that is on a downward spin.A  Nigeria that is plaque by ignorance and indiscipline.

A nigeria that is at war.

The only way out is discipline.People got to be responsible,accountable,reasonable,productive and progressive.Anything other than discipline is doom.

Couldn't have agreed less, we need to apply lots of discipline in our affairs, let every one respect our country by carrying out his/her responsibility with all seriousness, No paddy paddy or bending corners.

'@Redsun may god bless u jare.

Good other countries are not oblivious to the degenerative states of Nigerians and Nigeria.

sheyguy:

With the current climate of fear, and the consequent negative perception of the country in an international arena where image is everything, there are fears that the world’s most populous black nation is sliding back to its days as a pariah.

Hrm.



Sometimes I forget that naija is more than just about Nigerians. Also a symbol. . .

BootyOnMe:

Good other countries are not oblivious to the degenerative states of Nigerians and Nigeria.

Blazay, why are your bo/ob/ies so big? lump much?


let me help you with my newly patented mouthectomy. I am the world expert when it comes to removing bosom lumps with my mouth. Most times, i just suck the lump dry

I normally charge $[b]69,[/b]000 to remove lumps. But for you, I will do it for free.  If you are not satisfied with my service, you owe me a b/l/o/w-j/ob

Deal?


[img]https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria?action=dlattach;id=570674;type=avatar[/img]

meonbooty:

Blazay, why are your bo/ob/ies so big? lump much?


let me help you with my newly patented mouthectomy. I am the world expert when it comes to removing bosom lumps with my mouth. Most times, i just suck the lump dry

I normally charge $[b]69,[/b]000 to remove lumps. But for you, I will do it for free.  If you are not satisfied with my service, you owe me a b/l/o/w-j/ob

Deal?


[img]https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria?action=dlattach;id=570674;type=avatar[/img]

Which one consain you?
Glad you like them.

You get this kind for Yorubaland?
Glad I got your attention. . . . .Please, spread the bundles of joy!

Add to your collections of my pics darling!

^^^

When can I play with them, FOR FREE

Make it happen Blazay?

You are free to 'Sandusky' me, if you want

^^^^
Sorry darling. . . I only do Chinese men from now on.

Make I post am again jare, make una NL and other websites de wor-wor quench with e-badu belle and e-jolosi well-well!

[img]https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria?action=dlattach;id=570674;type=avatar[/img]

chei! See "farm fresh factory". I know one day i shall suck and hold one with my left hand.

For it is wrriten in the holy book that "thou must suck and squeeze", so says the GOOD lord . Amen

I can help but to start e-suckin 'em.


This is really Booty!!

BootyOnMe:

^^^^
Sorry darling. . . I only do Chinese men from now on.

Make I post am again jare, make una NL and other websites de wor-wor quench with e-badu belle and e-jolosi well-well!

[img]https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria?action=dlattach;id=570674;type=avatar[/img]

Check out the new one.

WHoaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

Blazaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay


LOL

Blazay don kill me oooo

See those Tattybojangles


[img]https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria?action=dlattach;id=570921;type=avatar[/img]

Wow. . . Thats impressive

BootyOnMe:

Check out the new one.

[size=16pt]BootyonCyberG[/size]. . .take your time ooo!

Niiiiiccccceeee

Yes, sliding back under a WEAK and LIVERLESS leader - Goatluck Jonathan! Nigerians want him as president even if he sends them to an early grave and does nothing while the country burns!

Mu he he he he he he
Glad to know we can go 'back to topic'!
Abeg make una nor show Tpia(m) o!
Im go begin call Jisos to cast out bobby-muscles make dem sink for this thread I swia.

I agree. . . nice 'floatation devices'!
Preservative free. . .no craw-craw. . .no 'banana' stretch marks.

Gaddamit! Am so confuse, right now!
Chei! Booty e no go beta for you this morning.
No wonder all of them they e-jealosi you.
You are the best.

Ol'boy see those "yoyolomo", their suckability worth signing a dead warrant.


Damn! Am stone cold.

Rhino.5dm:

Gaddamit! Am so confuse, right now!
Chei! Booty e no go beta for you this morning.
No wonder all of them they e-jealosi you.
You are the best.

Ol'boy see those "yoyolomo", their suckability worth signing a dead warrant.


Damn! Am stone cold.

Nor worry my dia.
Just have faith!
Nor be small e-badu belle and e jolosi from these your wor-wor female moderators and SUPA MODS O!
Enjoy jare. . . .

*FStranger should be banned for corrupting the "Por-no-tics" section of NL*

Blazay,

I am just coming in from Richardson

Can I see those pictures quick before I go to the bathroom?

Can somebody please translate pariah for me in yoruba language ?

Pariah= "Igboro ti daru" = "Ilu ti ko ni Ifayabale "

i repeat, its coming from the same western govts that nigerians love and adore so much. pls sit back and enjoy the dividends of democracy.

Kai! The devil is a liar,
Important thread like this and na booty sucking dey take over the issue
God forbid Nigeria disintegrate while we dey suck booby

maclatunji:

Pariah= "Igboro ti daru" = "Ilu ti ko ni Ifayabale "

thanks bros !

al-qaeda:

i repeat, its coming from the same western govts that nigerians love and adore so much. pls sit back and enjoy the dividends of democracy.

maybe we should switch our allegiance to the chinese and russians !

And Jona is busy given National awards.

You would be surprised what people of other countries think of Nigerians. I don tire to answer questions.

~Bluetooth:

thanks bros !maybe we should switch our allegiance to the chinese and russians !

MOST DEFINITELY. AT LEAST THEY R NOT HYPOCRITS OR CAPITALISTS. THEY JUST SIT ON THE FENCE.

bootylicious is this you  

https://www.nairaland.com/nigeria/topic-664067.128.html#msg8296380

I like the lethergy and indifference that Nairalnders regress to when faced with the glaring facts about their country they cool of with tomfoolery and vulgar jollity.

What r the duty of NL moderators/admin. why cant they delete some these dirty post . . Bootyonme & meonbooty.