Contrary to media reports suggesting that the Nigerian Community in Cote d’Ivore wants the Consular Officer at the Embassy recalled, the Nigerian Ambassador to Cote d’Ivoire, Mr. Martin S. Adamu, says the Officer has been discharging his duties diligently and that no group can dictate actions and activities of the Embassy.
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In a letter to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama, Mr. Adamu alleged that a group of Nigerians led by one Lawani Waliou known for character assassination of previous Consular Officers are doing same with the current Consular Officer because of the emergence of the new executive, led by Michael Emeka Onwuchelu who is not a member of their group.
He said, “On 29th May, 2021, the Embassy supervised a widely participated election, organised by the Nigerian Community where a new Executive, led by Michael Emeka Onwuchelu emerged.
‘The Lawani Waliou led group which refused to participate in the election, became embittered and resolved to sow seeds of discord and cause acrimony within the Nigerian Community, as, according to them, they had been in control of the Nigerian Community prior to the establishment of the Embassy in Cote d’lvoire.
“It had become apparent to the Mission that the group was unhappy with the shift in status quo and had, therefore gone to all lengths to disrupt harmony in the Nigerian Community.
To further escalate the issue, the Nigerian community in the West African country, went as far as writing to the host Ministry of Foreign Affairs to complain about the Embassy.
According to the Ambassador, “The group went further to make similar false accusations which they conveyed to Headquarters and even went as far as the Presidency.
“It is unfortunate that despite the efforts the Embassy has made to bring opposing factions together, in an attempt to foster peace within the community; the antagonists have remained self-serving and critical.
“It appears that they will stop at nothing if only to ensure that they have their way in all things and at all times.
“Contrary to their false accusations, I have worked closely with the officer in question and found him to be diligent and proactive. He goes beyond the call of duty to ensure the efficient execution of his duties”.
Martin disclosed that the Embassy has ensured fair play, inclusiveness and extensive representation in the affairs of the Nigerian Community.
“We have not encountered any problems in our dealings with other Nigerians except the Waliou group. We remain undaunted by this unwholesome act and reject any attempt to subject the Embassy to ridicule and to this end, we are resolute in ensuring that the Waliou group will not dictate the actions and activities of the Embassy in the host country”.
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