The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has lamented that the rights of many Nigerians are being threatened on account of the rising insecurity and economic hardship in the country.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday to mark this year’s Democracy Day.
He implored government at all levels to prioritise the protection of human rights and human lives, ensure justice for victims, and address the root causes of violence, injustice and economic hardship.
He expressed the Commission’s commitment to promoting, protecting, and enforcing human rights across the country.
He added:”We call on all Nigerians to partner with us in safeguarding democratic ideals that bind us together. together, we can give real meaning to democracy, ensure hope, justice, and opportunity for all.”
He said the NHRC has made significant strides in advancing democracy, including mobilising voters for elections and promoting citizen participation.
According to him, the Commission has also continued to monitor elections to ensure compliance with human rights standards, working tirelessly to promote free, fair, and credible polls.
Speaking further, he said prior to the 2023 general election, the Commission held town halls meetings for presidential and gubernatorial candidates, ensuring they mainstream human rights in governance when elected into power.
This initiative underscored the Commission’s commitment to holding leaders accountable for human rights protection he emphasised. We intend to continue this trend, engaging with elected officials and aspirants to prioritise human rights in their governance he added.
He further pointed that: “in the NHRC we recognise the intrinsic link between human rights and democracy, where the protection of fundamental rights is essential for sustainable development”. He added, “as we celebrate our democratic achievements, we honour the heroes of democracy who have tirelessly worked towards a Nigeria where governance will be accountable, rights are protected, and every citizen has the opportunity to live in peace and dignity”.
Remembering the hero’s of democracy and the justice of June 12 democracy day, the executive Secretary advocated justice for all the heroes of June 12 together, politicians and public servants alike. Such posture of government helps to ensure democracy.
He said:” If June 12, 1993 Presidential elections were adjudged as free and fair and the winners of the elections have been recognised, both those alive and posthumously, then there is justice to recognise that the election itself was conducted by human beings and not spirits.
” The arrowheads of the June 12, 1993 presidential election in the National Electoral Commission (NEC) should be recognised and given appropriate national honours and immortalised in public institutions as part of the justice of June 12 and foundation for democracy in Nigeria. Justice delayed is Justice denied.”
