RoLAC, NHRC Mark International Human Rights Day
As Commission Appeals to Nigerians to Support Human Rights Fund
The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) and the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) commemorated International Human Rights Day on Tuesday with an awareness walk aimed at raising public consciousness about human rights issues in Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary of NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, led participants from Eagles Square in Central Area to the Commission's headquarters in Maitama. He emphasized the importance of community involvement in promoting human rights and called on Nigerians to support the Human Rights Fund, which remains unfunded to date.
“Protecting human rights is a collective responsibility that goes beyond government efforts alone," Dr. Ojukwu stated. He urged citizens to contribute not just financially but also through donations of resources such as equipment, computers, and vehicles, which can significantly aid the Commission's efforts.
"This fund has not received any donations so far. We appeal to private individuals and companies to see the addressing of human rights as a common problem that requires joint action," he said, highlighting the critical issues affecting vulnerable populations in the country.
Participants in the awareness walk carried placards with messages emphasizing equality and the importance of protecting human rights. Slogans included "Stand for equality, fight for humanity," "Human rights are universal rights. Let's protect them," and "Break the chains of inequality, advance human rights."
Dr. Salamatu Suleiman, Chairman of the Governing Council of the Commission, echoed Dr. Ojukwu's sentiments, stating that the commemoration of human rights should not be limited to one day but should be celebrated daily. She emphasized the importance of education for out-of-school children, stating that providing education could significantly reduce societal vices.
International Human Rights Day is celebrated annually on December 10, marking the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The day also serves as the culmination of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, which began on November 25.
As the NHRC continues to advocate for human rights in Nigeria, the plea for support underscores the urgent need for collective action to address ongoing challenges within the human rights landscape.
