US Government Expresses Concern about Niger Delta Violence

…Praise efforts at dialogue, calls for protection of human rights

By Chiemelie Ezeobi

The United States (US) government through its mission house in Nigeria, Tuesday expressed worry over the increasing spate of violence and the use of explosions on pipelines and gas installations in the Niger Delta region

Although it praised the efforts of the government in engaging the militants, the US government asked that the human rights of all Nigerians must be protected.

In a statement made available to THISDAY, the US Mission to Nigeria said it also shares the concerns of all Nigerians, adding that while the Americans remain supportive of efforts at dialogue, the rights of all Nigerians must be protected.

The statement reads, “The U.S Mission to Nigeria is monitoring reports of attacks and other incidents in the Niger Delta. We share the concerns of all Nigerians about these attacks.

“Furthermore, the United States remains supportive of efforts, including the promotion of dialogue, to address grievances in the Niger Delta.

“We encourage all parties to resolve their disputes through peaceful means and emphasize that human rights of all Nigerians must be protected.”

Further details later