NHRC URGES NIGERIANS TO PRIORITIZE HUMAN RIGHTS IN DAILY INTERACTIONS AND COMMUNITIES
MARIA EWA
The National Human Rights Commission has called on Nigerians to build a society where human rights are a daily reality, and not just an aspiration.
The Executive Secretary of the
National Human Rights Commission, Chief Tony Ojukwu, made this known during a Sensitization Walk in Calabar to mark the 30th anniversary of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Institution.
Human rights in Nigeria are protected under the current Constitution of 1999.
Although Nigeria has made major improvements in human rights under this constitution, and has been active in signing and ratifying international human rights treaties over the years, it has experienced challenges in the implementation of these treaties domestically.
Chief Ojukwu, who was represented by the Cross State Coordinator, Mr. Remi Ajuga, however urged citizens to keep taking action, and stand strong, as their combined efforts are key to achieving progress.
“A lot of progress has been made. For instance, citizen political participation has enabled our democracy to flourish. You can see the enthusiasm; people are always looking forward to campaigns and elections with excitement. That is one way to gauge the participation of citizens in the governance process.”
Reaffirming the Commission’s unwavering commitment to protecting human rights despite challenges, the National Human Rights Commission boss said the 30th anniversary was being marked with a symbolic Walk for Human Rights, promoting the values of freedom, equality, and justice in Nigeria.
Chief Ojukwu pointed out that the Day serves as a reminder for Nigerians to ensure every right is protected, every voice is heard, and no one is left behind in promoting and protecting human rights.
“Some Nigerians go missing without any explanation. It should not be like that. People are citizens because their countries can give an account of them, whether dead or alive. But do we have such a situation in practice? No! So, every citizen must be accounted for by the government of the day. That is what human rights are all about.”
On her part, the Commission’s Assistant Chief Public Affairs Officer, Calabar Office, Mrs. Tobechi Onuma noted that since citizens share the same human identity, it is pertinent that everyone rejects societal practices that violate human rights, particularly those affecting women and girls.
“This day reminds us of our shared identity as human being, this day is the birth date of human right. The National Human Right Commission Criss River State continues to protect, promote and enforce the right of all the people of Cross River State. This is to ensure the full enjoyment of human right by all.”
The Assistant Chief Investigation officer in Cross River State, Mr. Bekong Ushie urged citizens to look out for one another and report any suspected human rights abuses.
“We also want to urge you all to join us in the Crusade for the protection of human rights, report any abuse, it must not be you or the victim, it could be your neighbour. Wherever you see your neighbor treating his or her child wrongly report to the Commission. We are here to serve you and our services are free.”
He emphasized that respect for human rights flourishes when communities live in harmony, trust and respect each other, and also coexist peacefully.
