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The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in collaboration with stakeholders on Friday, commenced activities to mark this year’s International Human Rights Day, with the launch of a 16 days activism against gender-based violence.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN said, that International Human Rights Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on the progress made as a nation in advancing the fundamental rights as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and other international human rights instruments to which Nigeria is a party.
Ojukwu said, the day also, “Challenges us to confront the gaps and obstacles that continue to hinder the full realisation of these rights”, adding that, this year’s celebration, themed, ‘Equality – Reducing Inequality and Advancing Human Rights’, is a timely reminder and a rallying call to reaffirm the collective commitment to upholding and protecting the rights of every individual in Nigeria and beyond.
He said “The Commission and its partners have lined up a series of impactful programmes and initiatives designed to amplify the voices of the marginalized, promote accountability and foster a deeper understanding of human rights among all stakeholders.
“Through out the 16 days of activism, the Commission will be engaged in various activities aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence, promoting gender equality and advocating for policy and legislative reforms to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls.”
The NHRC he said, will collaborate with civil society organizations, government agencies and other stakeholders to amplify efforts and ensure a coordinated response to gender-based violence.
The activities for the 16 days of activism across the states of the federation include a visit to first ladies and the office of the Speaker of the House of Assembly across states, for advocacy and lobbying for legislation on violence against women and girls.
There will also be a visit to Chief Judges of the states and Judges of the Federal High Court, if available in the state, to discuss cases related to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV)
He said the commemoration will feature a range of impactful events, such as debates and quizzes for students to deepen their understanding of human rights, forums for civil society and lawmakers to discuss legislative gaps, and exhibitions showcasing the contributions of human rights defenders in Nigeria.
Ojukwu said the Commission will also meet with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), women lawyers and Civil Society Organizations across the states to explore legal provisions on the rights of women and girls, holding perpetrators accountable and plan action on advocacy for the passage of laws on protection of women and girls from harmful practices peculiar to the state.
NHRC’s efforts will culminate in a symbolic Human Rights Walk and an awards dinner on December 10, celebrating individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the promotion of human rights in Nigeria.
He said the commission has also planned a high-level forum to explore the intersection of human rights and corporate responsibility, as well as a town hall meeting to discuss innovative approaches to litigating human rights cases.
Ojukwu expressed gratitude to the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), the Ford Foundation and the Legal Defence and Assistance Project (LEDAP) for their support to the Commission.
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