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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release December 14, 1995

STATEMENT BY THE PRESS SECRETARY

The United States welcomes today's vote at the United Nations General Assembly condemning the arbitrary execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight others by the Government of Nigeria, expressing deep concern at the regime's human rights abuses, and urging the Nigerian government to take immediate and concrete steps to restore civilian, democratic rule.

Ninety-eight countries from all regions of the world voted in favor of this resolution. This overwhelming support demonstrates the deep opposition of the international community to these unjust executions and its determination that Nigeria's military regime be held accountable for its actions. The vote follows the suspension of Nigeria from the Commonwealth and actions taken individually and collectively by dozens of nations, including the United States.

The international community has today expressed its determination that the Nigerian government abide by its own stated promise of a return to civilian rule. Our goal remains to help Nigerians live under an open, pluralistic and democratic government that respects human rights.

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