The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has condemned the alarming rate of human rights violations in Nigeria, prompting a call to action for citizens to stand up and defend their rights. Ade Ikuesan, the National Vice-President of CDHR, urged the committee members in Kwara State to embark on a vigorous campaign to sensitize the public about recognizing and fighting against violations.
Ikuesan highlighted the lack of awareness among Nigerians regarding their rights and the necessary steps to take when violations occur. Advocacy efforts are crucial in creating the right level of awareness and empowering individuals to take appropriate actions.
During the biennial state convention of CDHR in Kwara State, held at the Nigeria Labour Congress Labour House in Ilorin, Ikuesan advised committee members to regularly visit law courts and police stations to identify innocent citizens whose human rights have been violated, resulting in their wrongful imprisonment.
Jumoke Olaoye, Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Kwara State, disclosed that the commission is currently addressing approximately 2,000 cases of human rights violations in the state. Olaoye emphasized that child abuse, perpetuated by psychologically-troubled parents, has become a prevalent societal issue.
Recognizing the CDHR’s efforts in the state, Olaoye called for intensified education on the rights of child citizens. Meanwhile, Michael Abiodun Olarewaju, General Manager of Diamond FM Radio Ilorin, pledged collaborative efforts between the radio station and the CDHR to combat human rights violations in Kwara State.
In his acceptance speech as the re-elected chairman, Afolabi Lukman emphasized the importance of security agencies in defending people’s rights, highlighting the essential role human rights and security play in upholding democracy in Nigeria.
