Nigeria Content Online

The minister of
Foreign Affairs, Odein Ajumogobia, has condemned a recent essay on
Nigeria by a former United States envoy to Nigeria, John Campbell.

In the essay, which
was published last week, Mr Campbell predicted that the 2011 polls
could tear Nigeria apart and that it could lead to post-election
sectarian violence, paralysis of the executive branch and even a coup.

“I have just read
with dismay, excerpts from Ambassador John Campbell’s latest essay on
Nigeria, entitled “Nigeria: Dancing on the brink” published in local
and international electronic and print media. It contains his doomsday
analysis of Nigeria’s 2011 elections and their aftermath,” Mr
Ajumogobia said at the weekend.

He said it was
unfortunate that the former diplomat, unlike his several illustrious
predecessors and worthy successor, “appears to take delight in inciting
instability in Nigeria with his entire thesis based on a worst case
scenario and seeming relish in willing it to occur.

“Perhaps Ambassador
Campbell seeks credibility for his suspect claim to in-depth knowledge
and expertise on matters concerning Nigeria,” the minister said.

Limited understanding

Mr Campbell’s
analysis, he said, is based on an obviously jaundiced and clearly
limited appreciation of the facts and dynamics of the current Nigerian
politics.

“This disturbing commentary is not only divisive but is also irresponsible and dangerous,” the minister said.

He said Nigeria is
committed to organizing credible elections in 2011 and in spite of the
acknowledged and self-evident challenges posed by the proposed INEC
timetable, the process is moving forward in a credible and transparent
manner.

“Ambassador
Campbell and his ilk would do well, if unable to add value, to keep
silent and observe as Nigeria takes definite steps to consolidate her
12 year old democracy and perhaps try to seek relevance in other more
constructive ways,” he said.