UN disowns official over comment on subsidy removal

By Augustine Ehikioya10 minutes ago



A REMARK made by Prof Jeffrey Sachs, the Special Advisor to the United States (US) Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon, on the withdrawal of subsidy on petrol by the Federal Government has created a gulf between the world body and the official.

The UN yesterday distanced itself from the remarks credited to Sachs on the dispute created by fuel subsidy removal.

During a visit to President Goodluck Jonathan last week, Ki-Moon’s aide had described the fuel subsidy withdrawal as a “bold and correct policy.”

He was quoted as saying that the funds accruing from the removal would be ploughed into rapid infrastructural development.

But a statement issued by the UN System in Nigeria yesterday said that Prof Sachs’ comment did not represent the position of the UN.

The statement reads: “Professor Jeffrey Sachs’ remarks relayed by the press on January 6, 2012 require clarification. Contrary to some press reports, Professor Sachs was not representing any official United Nations position on the removal of subsidy on petroleum products.

“Professor Sachs was visiting Abuja to discuss and assist in Nigeria’s programs for the Millennium Development Goals and poverty alleviation.

“The United Nations System in Nigeria takes this opportunity to stress its continued commitment to contributing to peace and stability in Nigeria.”

The UN also reiterated its belief in the principles of peace, human rights, democratic governance and solidarity as essential ingredients for equitable and sustainable development.

The statement further reads: “The United Nations System in Nigeria highly appreciates the support of the government and people of Nigeria in delivering its mandate in the country.”