HC Deb 11 December 1996 vol 287 cc217-8W
Mr. Tony Lloyd

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the outcome of the recent Commonwealth ministerial action group mission to Nigeria. [8580]

Dr. Liam Fox

The Commonwealth ministerial action group visited Nigeria from 18 to 20 November. The CMAG met General Abacha, representatives of the National Electoral Commission and the transition committees, leaders of the recently registered political parties, traditional rulers and the chairman of the Nigerian Human Rights Commission. The group welcomed the release of three human rights activists during the visit, but pressed for the immediate release of all political prisoners, including Chief Abiola. The CMAG also urged Nigerians to resolve the case of the Ogoni 19, review prison conditions and restore accountable civilian government. My noble Friend Baroness Chalker also had bilateral discussions with human rights and pro-democracy groups. The group will meet again in the new year to consider next steps.