by Mercy Don Igwe | Jun 24, 2024 | Press Release
PPDC SHAPES THE MEDIA LANDSCAPE AT ITS MAIDEN MEDIA CONVENING
Abuja, Nigeria— June 20th, 2024— The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) hosted a maiden media convening in Abuja, bringing together influential voices from the media to address pressing issues affecting journalism and media freedom in Nigeria.
The theme of the event was “Exploring Critical Issues and Fostering Collaboration in the Media Landscape” According to Munachi Okoro, Head of Communications and Knowledgement PPDC, The convening served as an opportunity for a discourse on some of the ways the PPDC can collaborate, forge and straighten our partnership with the media in a way to promote PPDCs programs areas which are beneficial for citizens. It also addressed recent challenges, including the alarming increase in arrests and intimidation of journalists.
The event also featured a panel discussion titled “Unwavering in the Face of Censorship: The power of Resilient Reporting,” which highlighted the challenges journalists face and strategies to uphold journalistic integrity despite censorship pressures.
The panel included distinguished speakers who shared their experiences and insights on navigating hostile environments to report truthfully. The discussions emphasized the crucial role of media organizations in safeguarding journalists and fostering a climate of transparency and accountability within the industry.
“In today’s Nigeria, the media’s role in promoting transparency and accountability is more critical than ever,” stated Jubril Shittu, CEO of PPDC. “Events like this underscore our commitment to empowering journalists and defending media freedom globally.”
He continued by stating the PPDC stands in solidarity with journalists and media organizations facing threats and censorship” adding that it is imperative for the Nigerian government to uphold press freedom and ensure the safety of journalists who risk their lives to uncover the truth.”
PPDC’s ongoing initiatives focus on leveraging technology and citizen engagement to promote transparency, accountability, and civic participation in governance. The PPDC constantly advocates for policy reforms and collaborate with civil society, media, and government stakeholders to foster a more open and just society.
About PPDC
Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-governmental organization and social enterprise driven by the desire to have a more transparent and accountable government and to increase citizens’ participation in governance processes. Our programs are designed to promote values and initiatives that drive institutional, behavioral, and systemic change in our society. More information on Public and Private Development Centre can be found at www.ppdc.org
Signed by;
Mercy Don Igwe
Senior Communications Officer,,
Public and Private Development Centre
by ppdc | May 24, 2024 | Press Release
Abuja, Nigeria – March 2024 – The Public and Private Development Center (PPDC) expresses concern over the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project. Following the third stakeholder meeting on May 23, 2024, the PPDC is highlighting significant issues related to the bidding and procurement process, the provision of an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), and the adherence to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
The project’s procurement process has come under scrutiny, particularly regarding compliance with the Procurement Act. According to the Honourable Minister of Works, Sen. Engr. Dr. Nweze David Umahi CON, the project was done under Restrictive bidding which is provided for under section 40 of the Public Procurement Act 2007. While this may be true, the aforementioned section also stipulates conditions under which restricted bidding may be employed. It mandates that such procedures be published in the procurement journal and that they be performed when the goods or services provided are available only from a limited number of suppliers. We would like to know why it was determined that this required a restrictive bidding process in the first instance, especially given the history and capacity of other reputable construction companies.
Stakeholders were initially reassured by the Minister’s commitment to releasing the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report during the second stakeholder meeting. However, this promise was retracted at the third meeting, with the new timeline pushing back disclosure by 2-3 months after the environmental and social impact assessment is complete. This justification, citing Section 15b of the Freedom of Information Act, raises concerns.
This delay is particularly troubling because a thorough ESIA process would have identified critical concerns like the presence of submarine cables beforehand. Withholding the ESIA report hinders transparency and public participation in decision-making. The public has a right to know how the Coastal Highway Project will affect their communities and environment. Hiding critical information only fuels distrust and undermines the government’s credibility.
In light of these concerns, the Public and Private Development Centre calls on the government to:
- Immediately release the full details of the procurement process for the Coastal Highway Project. Despite the Honorable Minister’s statement published by Leadership newspaper on the 8th of May 2024 affirming compliance with the Procurement Act, transparency is required. Full disclosure will ensure accountability and public trust.
- While we await the final Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) as mentioned by the Honorable Minister and Director, we request an immediate disclosure of the available ESIA report and engage stakeholders in meaningful consultations.
- Continue to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and public participation in all government projects and decision-making processes.
We urge the government to prioritize public interest and demonstrate a genuine commitment to transparency and accountability in the execution of the Coastal Highway Project.
About PPDC
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-governmental organization and social enterprise dedicated to fostering transparent and accountable governance while increasing citizens’ participation in governance processes. PPDC’s programs are designed to promote values and initiatives that drive institutional, behavioural, and systemic change in society.
For more information, visit www.ppdc.org.
Signed
Jubril Shittu
Chief Executive Officer,
Public and Private Development Centre.
by Mercy Don Igwe | May 23, 2024 | Press Release
Abuja, Nigeria – March 2024 – The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC)
spearheaded a pivotal Access to Justice Consortium Strategy Meeting. This
gathering marked a significant step towards a more just future for Nigerians and
Africans alike.
The consortium, a collaborative effort by PPDC, Citizen Gavel, Hope Behind Bars
Africa (HBBA), Law Hub Development and Advocacy Centre (Law Hub), and Centre
for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS), aims to achieve an African Society with equal access
to justice for all.
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has been committed to
enhancing transparency, accountability, and good governance through various
initiatives. PPDC’s Access to Justice program emphasizes the use of technology that can support the transformation of systems, processes and strategic procedural
reform initiatives that address the inherent and systematic delays in the
administration of civil proceedings and criminal justice.
The Access to Justice Consortium recognizes that collaboration is key. By bringing
together diverse stakeholders, the consortium fosters a comprehensive approach
to tackle access to justice challenges. This collaborative effort will lead to the
development of sustainable solutions that create a more efficient, equitable, and
accessible justice system.
The consortium welcomes new members across Africa to join its movement. With a
united front, the consortium aims to dismantle barriers to justice not just in Nigeria,
but across the African continent.
About PPDC
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-governmental
organization and social enterprise dedicated to fostering transparent and
accountable governance while increasing citizens’ participation in governance
processes. PPDC’s programs are designed to promote values and initiatives that
drive institutional, behavioral, and systemic change in society. For more
information, please visit www.ppdc.org.
Signed
Munachi Okoro
Head of Communication and Knowledge Management
Public and Private Development Centre
by ppdc | May 22, 2024 | Press Release
Abuja, Nigeria— May 8th, 2024— The Public and Private Development Centre’s ongoing Reforming Pre-Trial Detention in Nigeria (RPDN) Phase II Project is set to host a pro bono conference and training program aimed at empowering lawyers and law clinicians with the essential skills and knowledge to provide pro bono legal aid for pretrial detainees in Nigeria.
The conference seeks to equip legal professionals with the rudiments of pro bono services, including ethics of legal representation, rules of professional conduct, and other necessary skills, knowledge, and values crucial for effective pro bono legal aid provision.
Scheduled to take place over three days, the training will commence with a conference on day one, positioning the RPDN Phase II Project as a key leader in promoting Access to Justice through the utilization of pro bono legal services and Law Clinics in Nigeria. This conference will provide a platform for a general conversation on the importance of pro bono services in the Nigerian legal landscape.
Days two and three will feature technical sessions led by experts in the field, focusing on the specific roles of pro bono lawyers, law clinicians, and the project itself. Participants will gain in-depth knowledge of PPDC’s A2J Programs and will be equipped with the necessary tools to effectively represent the target number of pretrial detainees.
The training conference is expected to bring together legal professionals, academics, and stakeholders in the justice sector, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing towards the advancement of pro bono legal services in Nigeria.
Signed, Nnenna Eze
Communications Manager,
Public and Private Development Centre.
by ppdc | May 22, 2024 | Press Release
Abuja, Nigeria— May 7th, 2024—The Public and Private Development Center (PPDC) strongly condemns the recent arrest and detention of Daniel Ojukwu, a reporter with the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ). Ojukwu’s detention is a violation of press freedom and stands as a threat to the fundamental democratic principles of transparency and accountability.
Daniel Ojukwu was arrested for carrying out an investigative report. His detention undermines the vital role of journalists in holding the government accountable and providing the public with crucial information.
According to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015. Section 35(4), a person arrested should be released within 48 hours if not charged with a crime. However, Daniel Ojukwu remains detained since his arrest on May 1st, 2024, without formal charges being brought against him, raising serious concerns about due process and the potential abuse of power by the authorities.
PPDC asserts that the press plays a crucial role in ensuring the transparency and accountability of governments, especially with public funds. Journalists like Daniel Ojukwu are instrumental in uncovering corruption, abuse of power, and other wrongdoings that impact society.
The freedom of the press is a cornerstone of any democratic society. Without a free press, citizens are deprived of the information they need to make informed decisions and hold their leaders accountable.
PPDC calls for the immediate release of Daniel Ojukwu and urges the authorities to respect the rights of journalists to carry out their work without fear of intimidation or persecution.
Furthermore, we call on the Nigerian government to uphold its commitments to press freedom, as enshrined in international agreements and the Nigerian Constitution. The protection of journalists and the freedom of the press are essential for democracy.
PPDC stands in solidarity with Daniel Ojukwu, his family, and all journalists who courageously pursue the truth despite the risks they face. We will continue to advocate for press freedom and the protection of journalists’ rights in Nigeria and beyond.
Jubril Shittu,
Chief Executive Officer
The Public and Private Development Centre
by ppdc | May 22, 2024 | Press Release
Abuja, Nigeria— April 26th, 2024— The recent jailbreak at the Suleja Custodial Center has sparked widespread concern over public safety and highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive reform in pre-trial detention systems. On Wednesday, April 23, 2024, 118 inmates were reported to have escaped from the facility after heavy rainfall broke down a section of the facility’s security perimeter fence, prompting a manhunt and raising questions about the effectiveness of security measures in correctional institutions.
The jailbreak at Suleja Custodial Center highlights the dangers such incidents pose to society. Unlawful absconding of inmates not only jeopardizes the safety of citizens but also undermines public trust in the justice system.
The said Suleja Custodial Centre is a project location of the Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC). In light of this incident, PPDC reaffirms its commitment to reforming pre-trial detention systems. PPDC recognizes the need for a holistic approach that ensures the safety of both inmates and the public while promoting a fair and speedy dispensation of justice.
PPDC’s Reforming Pretrial Detention Phase II project supported by the US government through the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL) focuses on increasing the capability of Nigeria’s corrections and judicial sectors, in collaboration with Nigeria’s law schools and local bar associations, in properly handling pre-trial detainees to carry out justice, ensure rule of law, and build public confidence in the country’s justice process. PPDC is also providing pro bono legal aid for inmates. Through collaboration with government agencies, community organizations, and private partners, PPDC aims to create a more equitable and effective criminal justice system that prioritizes rehabilitation over punishment.
“We believe that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, tribe or orientation, deserves a chance to have a fair hearing,” said Kenechukwu Agwu, Senior Programs Manager, Access to Justice, PPDC. He goes further to add that “our efforts are aimed at creating a system that not only safeguards public safety but also fosters positive change in the lives of those who have come into contact with the criminal justice system.”
While we appreciate the Nigerian Correctional Service for their efforts at utilizing the Corrections Information Management (CIMS) to ensure the recapture of the escapees, PPDC urges government officials to prioritize the implementation of reforms, especially the 2019 Correctional Services Act, that enhance security measures in correctional facilities, improve conditions for inmates, and promote alternatives to incarceration where appropriate. By investing in preventive measures and rehabilitation programs, policymakers can address the underlying issues that contribute to crime and ensure a safer and more just society for all.
Signed, Nnenna Eze
Communications Manager,
Public and Private Development Centre.
