24 Filipino hostages in nigeria “in good condition” 

1 February 2007 — Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria Masaranga R. Umpa reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Delta State and chief government negotiator Barr. Ovie Omo-Agege has confirmed that the 24 Filipino seafarers who have been abducted by militants are still “in good condition,” and were all looking well. 

Ambassador Umpa met with chief government negotiator Omo-Agege at the Government Annex Office in Warri on 31 January 2007 to continue coordination with the Delta State government on the negotiations to free the Filipino captives.  The chief government negotiator informed the Ambassador that he had personally gone to Chinoma Creek the previous day and saw for himself that the Filipinos were well.  He also articulated the State government’s assurance that “all efforts are still being exerted to effect their release.” 

In his report to the Department, Ambassador Umpa said that the chief government negotiator admitted to him that the State government “has a little difficulty in dealing with the abductors, as they have made some political demands,” but believes that this development can be worked out. 

Ambassador Umpa also reported that due to the constant monitoring and pressure from Delta State Governor James Ibori, a Delta State Security Council meeting was called on 31 January.  The Governor, Deputy Governor and the Commanding Generals of the different armed services of Delta State participated in the meeting, where the top item on the agenda was the negotiations to release the 24 Filipinos. 

Ambassador Umpa has likewise been in daily contact with Mr. Klaus Stefsen, General Manager of the shipping company that owns Baco Liner 2.  Mr. Stefsen informed the Ambassador that the local pilot of the vessel had also seen the Filipinos, and has confirmed that they are still in good condition. 

Ambassador Umpa leads a six-person Embassy team in Warri, which monitors the situation there and coordinates with the State Government as the phase of negotiations enters the second week.  END

/jay

(Home)