MSF responds to statements by the Emir of Gusauand and ANPP about Zamfara lead poisoning crisis; Reiterates call for immediate action by the government of Nigeria
Sep 05, 2012
Médecins sans Frontières (MSF) is encouraged by the engagement of the Emir of Gusau on the critical lead poisoning situation in Zamfara, but notes with concern the confusion caused by a potential ban on gold ore processing.
MSF unequivocally believes that a ban on artisanal mining would have disastrous medical effects in the communities of Zamfara. MSF reiterates its position that a successful resolution to the crisis must include a three-pronged approach of immediate remediation of affected villages, medical treatment to the most vulnerable victims and the implementation of safer mining practices.
In response to the statement by the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) on 1 September, MSF again welcomes wide engagement by all political parties, but reminds the parties as well as the general public that MSF operates in Nigeria on the principle of neutrality, which means that it is not concerned with political debates. MSF’s focus remains steadfastly on the well-being of its patients.
“MSF is concerned that the lead poisoning crisis could become a political football detracting attention from where it needs to be focused: On the victims still waiting for all levels of the Government of Nigeria to assume their responsibility” said Ivan GAYTON, MSF Country Director in Nigeria. “MSF has been treating thousands of children with acute lead poisoning for over two years now. MSF is, however, only a medical organisation, and cannot address this crisis alone. MSF encourages all political parties to work together to assure the citizens of Zamfara state receive the urgent help they need.“
MSF welcomes the engagement of traditional rulers such as His Royal Highness the Emir of Gusau, and hopes to work together with all stakeholders to address this tragic and needless loss of life.
MSF continues to call for the immediate action from the Government of Nigeria, most importantly, the immediate release of the funds that were promised for the timely remediation of Bagega village, where hundreds of poisoned children are waiting for life-saving medical attention that cannot be started until remediation has been concluded.
“Without environmental remediation and safer mining, MSF will in the end be helpless to assist those affected by this crisis” continued Mr. Gayton. “With reports that the problem is spreading, MSF fears that the contamination will only worsen if there is no safer mining available for the people of Zamfara.”
MSF is a medical humanitarian assistance organisation that has been providing emergency medical services throughout Nigeria since 1971. MSF is not affiliated with any religion, government agency or political party.
MSF unequivocally believes that a ban on artisanal mining would have disastrous medical effects in the communities of Zamfara. MSF reiterates its position that a successful resolution to the crisis must include a three-pronged approach of immediate remediation of affected villages, medical treatment to the most vulnerable victims and the implementation of safer mining practices.
In response to the statement by the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) on 1 September, MSF again welcomes wide engagement by all political parties, but reminds the parties as well as the general public that MSF operates in Nigeria on the principle of neutrality, which means that it is not concerned with political debates. MSF’s focus remains steadfastly on the well-being of its patients.
“MSF is concerned that the lead poisoning crisis could become a political football detracting attention from where it needs to be focused: On the victims still waiting for all levels of the Government of Nigeria to assume their responsibility” said Ivan GAYTON, MSF Country Director in Nigeria. “MSF has been treating thousands of children with acute lead poisoning for over two years now. MSF is, however, only a medical organisation, and cannot address this crisis alone. MSF encourages all political parties to work together to assure the citizens of Zamfara state receive the urgent help they need.“
MSF welcomes the engagement of traditional rulers such as His Royal Highness the Emir of Gusau, and hopes to work together with all stakeholders to address this tragic and needless loss of life.
MSF continues to call for the immediate action from the Government of Nigeria, most importantly, the immediate release of the funds that were promised for the timely remediation of Bagega village, where hundreds of poisoned children are waiting for life-saving medical attention that cannot be started until remediation has been concluded.
“Without environmental remediation and safer mining, MSF will in the end be helpless to assist those affected by this crisis” continued Mr. Gayton. “With reports that the problem is spreading, MSF fears that the contamination will only worsen if there is no safer mining available for the people of Zamfara.”
MSF is a medical humanitarian assistance organisation that has been providing emergency medical services throughout Nigeria since 1971. MSF is not affiliated with any religion, government agency or political party.
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