Nigeria's presidency clarifies that the country was not snubbed in the recent UN Human Rights Council election, as it did not contest. The presidential adviser emphasized Nigeria's commitment to supporting endorsed candidates, aiming for collective African representation and unity on the global stage.
The Nigerian presidency has clarified that the nation was not snubbed in the recent United Nations Human Rights Council election held on October 9. Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser on information and strategy to President Bola Tinubu, emphasized that Nigeria did not contest in this election cycle.
The UN General Assembly elected 18 new members for the 2025-2027 term, with successful candidates from various countries, including Bolivia, Colombia, and Spain. In the African regional group, five candidates—Benin, Gambia, Kenya, DRC, and Ethiopia—secured all available seats, leading to speculation about Nigeria’s absence in the election.
Onanuga addressed the concerns, stating that there was no competition within the African group, as the number of candidates matched the number of available seats. He reiterated that Nigeria had not submitted a candidacy for this election cycle, similar to its non-participation in 2023.
He dismissed reports claiming Nigeria was snubbed, insisting that any votes attributed to the country were likely cast in error by nations believing Nigeria was on the ballot. Onanuga underscored the importance of regional endorsements in such elections, noting that Nigeria has focused on supporting endorsed candidates to promote collective African representation.
He urged the media to verify information before publication, cautioning against disparaging Nigeria, especially regarding international affairs. The presidency aims to foster a united African voice on the global stage, reflecting President Tinubu’s diplomatic approach.
