Referendum: EU High Representative Replies Biafra,Organization of Emerging African States

Federica Mogherini, European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security has replied Biafra agitators and the Organization of Emerging African States (OEAS) over their call for a referendum.


The OEAS had earlier requested that the European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security utilizes their good office to help bring about a referendum for Biafra’s independence.

The OEAS also called for release of all Biafran political prisoners, a stand down of Nigerian forces, and a snap referendum to be held within 90 days.

In response to their request, Mogherini replied Dr., Jonathan Levy, OEAS Chief Administrative Officer, stressing that, the European Union’s official position is that while it has strong diplomatic and economic ties with Nigeria, “protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms remains a priority for the EU and we encourage the authorities [Nigeria] in every occasion to respect such rights.”

The EU went on to advise the OEAS and Biafrans that self-determination and border changes must be in accordance with established international law. The OEAS has called for an internationally recognized referendum on Biafra independence or autonomy. The EU has indicated it will only recognize a Biafra born via international law and not armed secession.

To achieve a referendum, the OEAS advises all nonviolent means should be utilized including general strikes, economic boycotts, work actions, demonstrations, lawsuits, and civil disobedience. Nigeria is a member of The International Labor Organization (ILO). The ILO recognizes the right to engage in general strikes and the right to strike is also recognized in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights of 1966 (Article 8(1)(d)).

Source: saharareporters.com

Messi condemned for 'partying with oppressors' in Gabon

The Argentine has "undermined the credibility of his own charitable foundation" by showing support to Ali Bongo's regime, according to the HRF

Lionel Messi has been condemned by the Human Rights Foundation, who accuse him of "partying with oppressors" in his recent visit to Gabon.

The Barcelona star was photographed with Gabon dictator Ali Bongo after helping lay a foundation stone for a planned new venue for the Africa Cup of Nations finals in 2017, while he also visited a state-run hospital and a restaurant owned by the Bongo family.

While the Gabon government has strenuously denied reports that Messi was paid a seven-figure sum to attend the country in July, he has nonetheless been criticised for showing public support for the Bongo regime.

The controversial leader of the country has been accused of electoral fraud in the past, as well as certain human rights abuses, including the refusal to sanction investigations into the killing of children.

"In providing PR services to Gabon's Bongo family, Lionel Messi has seriously undermined the credibility of his own charitable foundation," said Human Rights Foundation president Thor Halvorssen.

"Whereas Messi claims to support children's rights, and even serves as a Unicef ambassador to promote youth education, he has endorsed a kleptocratic regime that refuses to investigate the ritual murder of children in Gabon.

"Messi's trip is part of the Bongo family's PR campaign to promote the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, which Gabon will host at enormous expense despite the fact that the Bongo family's embezzlement has left 20 per cent of the population to live on less than $2 per day."

HRF chief strategy officer Alex Gladstein added: "It's shocking, given the recent public humiliation endured by Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, and Kanye West, that Messi's management and the athlete himself would consider putting his prestige at the service of a serial human rights abuser.

"If Messi wants to do good in Gabon, HRF recommends that rather than partying with oppressors, he release a statement in solidarity with the country’s persecuted dissidents and environmentalists, and press the regime to investigate the ritual murders of children."

Bongo himself claimed during the visit that Messi's appearance was simply due to a promise he made in an earlier meeting in Barcelona.

"When I was in Barcelona a few years ago, I met Messi who had told me that he would come to visit me in Libreville," he said. "It's a promise he made me. He is a man of honour who just kept his word."