NIGERIA will no longer condone the breach of established channel of communication by some ambassadors and their diplomats, who have continue to make comments on political issues that amount to undue interference in its internal affairs.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru, who stated this Friday during a briefing session with the diplomatic corps, explained that some ambassadors and diplomats, after drafting their letters, decide to send it direct to the Presidential Villa, instead of passing it across to the Ministry for onward considerations and assessment
Ashiru affirmed that this was incompatible with the status of diplomatic missions, adding: “We will not hesitate to identify and deal with erring missions, who fail to respect Nigeria’s sensitivities and sovereignty.”
In the same vein, the minister maintained that Nigeria would not succumb to any pressure to accept the same sex marriage and urged the international communities to demonstrate a better understanding of the country’s traditions and cultural beliefs.
He said: “On gay rights, I must stress that this is not in accord with the culture and religious beliefs of the generality of Nigerians.
“Respect for human rights of a minute minority cannot be at the expense of the larger societal values, well being and orientation of the people. Even laws are rooted in culture, which must be upheld for the good of the society.
“I, therefore, appeal to the international community to show a greater understanding of the culture and traditions of our people.”
Speaking on criminal activities and illegal oil bunkering and theft in the Gulf of Guinea, Ashiru asked the diplomats to warn their various countries and nationals to desist from the acts, saying Nigeria would deal with the offenders.
“Oil theft in the Gulf of Guinea, as you are no doubt aware, has remained a major challenge facing the country, as we continue to lose huge revenues arising from these criminal activities.
“We will no tolerate again any criminal activities of oil theft on our water coast. So, warn your countries to desist from these criminal activities.
“However, you must cooperate with us to address the international dimension to this scourge. The Nigeria Navy and NIMASA have been directed to take firm measures against any ship caught engaging in unwholesome activities, including oil theft in Nigeria’s territory.”
Source: Guardian
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