By Jude Opara, Abuja
The National Human Rights Commission (NHIC) on Wednesday assured that it will continue to ensure protection of the rights and dignity of Nigerians across board.
Executive Secretary/CEO of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu gave the assurance at the grand occasion of the commoration of the 30th anniversary of the Commission in the country. He also said the Commission decided to celebrate some outstanding individuals who have partnered with the NHIC in the discharge of its responsibilities over the years.
“This Year’s event is a special one. It commemorates the 30th anniversary of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Institution (NHRI). Hence, we proudly celebrate 30 years of service to humanity since our establishment in 1995.
Furthermore, this event is also special as it affords the Commission the opportunity to recognize outstanding partners that have supported the work of the Commission over these years.
“This celebration is therefore both a journey and a reaffirmation. A journey that began normatively in 1995 with a vision for a Nigeria rooted in the principles of Freedom, Equality and Justice. It is also a reaffirmation that, despite the challenges we face, from insecurity, Social; economic and Political problems, our commitment remains unwavering”.
Ojukwu further stressed that the celebration serves as a reminder that human rights flourish where communities embrace harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.
He called on all and sundry to support the Commission as it they recommit themselves to the mandate that has guided them in the past 30 years to protect, promote, and enforce the rights of all persons in Nigeria.
In his goodwill message, the Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres said, human rights whether civil, political, economic, social and cultural — are inalienable, indivisible and interdependent.
Guterres regretted that in recent years, there has been a shrinking of the civic space, with grevious grave violations that signal a flagrant disregard for rights, and a callous indifference to human suffering.
He assured that the United Nations in collaboration with Civil Societies (CSOs) will continue to assist people around the world realize their basic rights.
“Every day, the United Nations helps people around the world realize their most basic rights. Together with civil society and governments, we deliver food and provide shelter; support education and elections; clear mines; defend the environment; empower women; and strive for peace.
“But we cannot do it alone. This work depends on all people, everywhere, taking a stand. When we protect the most vulnerable, when we refuse to look away, when we speak up for the institutions that speak up for us, we keep human rights alive”.
Dr. Mohammed Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in his goodwill message stressed the need to always respect the dignity of man and the freedom of expression.
Fall noted that when there is human rights, the nation flourishes and developes and that is it dwindles when the reverse becomes the case.
He insisted that human rights are the foundation of freedom which are not optional, adding that itt should be the everyday reality for all, men, women and children.
