News
U.S. cruel treatment of illegal migrants reveals hypocrisy of so-called “human rights guardian”
By Zhong Sheng, People’s Daily
The U.S. practice of detaining illegal migrants at holding cells with poor and unpleasant conditions has seriously violated the human rights of the individuals and is triggering wide concern from the international society.
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. border authorities arrested 210,000 migrants attempting to cross the border with Mexico in March, the highest monthly total since March 2000, and another over 200,000 were apprehended in the following month.
The abuse of asylum seekers by American law enforcement officials have led to exacerbating humanitarian crisis at the borders.
According to The New York Times, U.S. authorities arrested apprehended 1.7 million illegal migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border in the fiscal year 2021, the biggest amount recorded since at least 1960.
Additionally, the violence of U.S. law enforcement officers is upgrading. For instance, U.S. border agents on horseback were seen chasing Haitian migrants back to a river in a footage exposed last September.
The detention facilities for illegal migrants in the U.S. were mostly built by private companies. As a result of the terrible living circumstances and lack of oversight, human rights abuses are prevalent.
According to official data released by the U.S., 557 deaths of migrants were recorded at the southern border in the fiscal year 2021. The figure was more than double that of a year earlier and the highest since relevant statistics were recorded in 1998. Some media outlets said the true figure might be larger than what had been reported.
The violations of illegal migrant children’s human rights by U.S. law enforcement departments were even more astonishing.
The last U.S. administration adopted a “family separation” policy for illegal migrants, which resulted in the separation of vast numbers of children from their parents. As a result, many children are still looking for their parents today.
Despite public pressure for the U.S. government to put an end to the policy, the U.S. did not significantly change its treatment of illegal migrant children.
USA Today said in an article published last November that after the outbreak of COVID-19, the U.S. government, citing relevant terms in the public health law, attempted to evict all the migrants and refugees seeking to cross the border, which was literally a 2.0 version of the “family separation” policy.
Statistics indicate that among the 266,000 migrant children detained by the U.S., 25,000 have been detained for more than 100 days. The relevant detention facilities operate under chaotic management with frequent abuses, forced labor, and other violations of human rights. The children held in custody are suffering from serious physical and mental trauma.
The issue of illegal migrants faced by the U.S., is to a large extent, an outcome of the country’s long-term hegemonic practice. In the nearly 200 years since the Monroe Doctrine was adopted, the U.S. has had over 30 cases of military intervention in Latin American countries, which placed the latter in lasting turbulence and poverty.
The U.S. newspaper Liberation said many migrants arriving at the U.S. border are “double victims” of the U.S. policy. They fled the violence and coups supported by the U.S., but when they arrived in the U.S., they went through violent arrests, imprison, and sex assault.
What the newspaper said profoundly reveals the historical and realistic responsibility that the U.S. has to take regarding the migrant issue. The country refuses to tackle the problem at the source and fulfill its promise of supporting the development of regional countries for solving the migrant issue. On the contrary, it is asking Latin American countries to be responsible.
Such a negative attitude has triggered criticism from regional countries. Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has once expressed his dissatisfaction with the U.S. attitude.
The U.S. government’s politicizing of migrant policy is also one of the major reasons for the migrant crisis. To pander to the voters, the last U.S. administration adopted harsh migrant policy and built walls along the U.S.-Mexico border. The incumbent administration once promised to roll out an ordered and humane migrant policy, but it broke its promise to end removal orders just 8 months after it came into power.
Given the upcoming U.S. midterm elections, the migrant issue will once again become a bargain chip for the Republicans and Democrats. The Journal of Politics of the U.S. noted that the issue of migrants is just a political tool of American politicians. The Republicans and Democrats, placing their political interests above humanitarianism, have made migrants pawns on their political chessboard.
The cruel treatment of illegal migrants, who have already been in a very hard position, reveals the hypocrisy of the U.S. that claims to be a “human rights guardian.”
Facing international concerns, the White House should adopt responsible measures, practically protect migrants’ rights to life and health, as well as other basic human rights, and fulfill its promises made to regional countries, so as to avoid more humanitarian tragedies.
(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People’s Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
News
Ukhomunyio Community Seeks Edo Government Intervention Over Insecurity
A group of concerned stakeholders in Ukhomunyio Community, Okpella, Edo State, has called on the Edo State Government and security agencies to strengthen security presence in the area following recent security concerns and incidents of violence.
In a statement jointly signed by community stakeholders, the group said that the once-peaceful Ukhomunyio Community had in recent weeks experienced growing tension and insecurity.
The statement was jointly signed by Sam S. O. Afemikhe, Roland Ediawe, Dr Henry Idogun, Kasimu Sunday, Mark Adogah, Friday Ododeh, Omoreige Usman, Dr Victor Balogun, and Prince Haruna Ahmed.
The stakeholders urged the government to deploy more security personnel to the community and surrounding areas to help maintain peace and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
“We therefore call on the Edo State Government, security agencies, and all relevant authorities to immediately intervene by strengthening security presence within Ukhomunyio Community and surrounding areas,” the statement said.
They also called for a thorough investigation into recent incidents of violence and disturbances linked to the annual Olimi Festival.
According to the statement, the community recently recorded tragic incidents involving residents of Kalaba and Imioko villages, while some persons were reportedly abducted during the attacks and later reunited with their families.
The group described the incidents as unfortunate and contrary to the community’s peaceful traditions.
“We strongly condemn these acts, which are completely alien to the long-standing peaceful tradition of our community,” the statement added.
The stakeholders further expressed concern over violence that erupted during the recent Olimi Festival, saying some individuals allegedly used firearms during the celebration.
They said the violence resulted in casualties and injuries, with some affected persons currently receiving medical treatment.
“The Olimi Festival has historically been a symbol of unity, peace, celebration, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and Okpella in general,” the group stated.
According to the statement, the festival had historically symbolised unity, peace, and cultural heritage among the people of Ukhomunyio and the wider Okpella community.
The group also appealed to authorities to ensure that all investigations and security operations are carried out lawfully and fairly to avoid escalating tensions within the community.
Beyond strengthening security, the stakeholders called on authorities to prevent further violence and restore peace and confidence within the community.
They warned that continued insecurity could affect economic and social activities in the area, including operations linked to major industries.
As part of efforts to support investigations, the group announced a N1 million reward for credible information that could assist security agencies in identifying those behind the recent incidents.
Another N1 million reward was offered for information that could help authorities identify individuals connected to the violence during the Olimi Festival.
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