SECURITY COUNCIL CONDEMNS DEADLY TERRORIST CAR BOMB ATTACKS IN NIGERIA

Source: unic.org

The Security Council today condemned “in the strongest terms” Friday's deadly terrorist car bombings in Abuja, Nigeria's capital, during celebrations marking the 50th independence anniversary of Africa's most populous country.

“Terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of its motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed,” the 15-member body said in a press statement, reiterating its determination to combat all forms of terrorism, in accordance with its responsibilities under the United Nations Charter.

According to media reports, the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) claimed responsibility for the attack which killed a dozen people and injured three dozen more.

The Council underlined the need to bring perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of “these reprehensible acts of terrorism to justice,” and urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with the Nigerian authorities in this regard.

It reminded States that they must ensure that measures taken to combat terrorism comply with all obligations under international law, particularly international human rights, refugee and humanitarian law.

On Friday, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the attacks, assuring Nigeria of unflinching UN support and solidarity as the country seeks to address the challenges confronting it, particularly to consolidate the significant gains made in promoting democratic governance and improving the welfare of all Nigerians.