The Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Anthony Ojukwu, SAN, has called on Nigerians to recognise the significance of the monthly dashboard report by the commission.
Ojukwu said this on Friday at the commission’s monthly dashboard report presentation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the dashboard is a monthly analysis and graphical presentation of human rights situation in Nigeria.
NAN also reports that the observatory aspect of the dashboard is for monitoring, reporting and analysing human rights violations.
NAN reports that on Feb. 14, the Commission inaugurated the maiden edition of human rights dashboard and observatory and presented the report of January.
NAN reports further that in January, a total of 1,147 complaints was recorded against 1,484 recorded in February, March recorded a total of 1580 complaints , April recorded 19,470 while May recorded 55, 218 and 106,604 complaints in June.
Ojukwu said that the dashboard stands as a testament to the Commission ‘s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of human rights in Nigeria.
” Today’s presentation features data for the months of July and August with 185,651 and 228,549 complaints received, respectively.
”We were unable to make July’s presentation due to the protest.
” As we convene today to analyse the latest findings from our dashboard, I urge each and every one of us to recognise the significance of this platform in fostering accountability, transparency.
”The platform will also aide advocacy for the protection of human rights in Nigeria.
” As we delve into the analysis of this month’s dashboard data, let us not only consider the numbers and figures before us but also the lives, stories, and struggles that lie behind these data” he said.
He expressed joy shedding light on the pressing human rights issues that continue to impact the lives of many in Nigeria.
” I urge the media to continue to play their crucial role in amplifying the voices of the vulnerable and marginalised by ensuring the wide circulation of these critical findings.
” In recent times, we have witnessed the #EndBadGovernance protest that rang throughout Nigeria, a bold expression of the masses’ demand for accountability and good governance.
” It is with great concern that we condemn the blatant use of force and disregard for the rights to peaceful protest and assembly.
”Freedom of expression and other associated rights exhibited by law enforcement agencies, leading to tragic incidents of violence and loss of lives” he said.
Ojukwu noted that such actions represent a stark violation of the fundamental human rights of the Nigerian people, calling for unequivocal condemnation and justice.
He added that the issue of displacement was another grave human rights concern, affecting countless individuals and communities.
According to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), about 208,655 persons have been displaced in 22 states this year already, a stark increase from 2023 numbers.
” It is therefore imperative that government takes immediate and sustainable actions to address this pressing issue, ensuring the protection and well-being of all those affected by displacement.
”The government need to take steps to avert the effects of flooding and other sources of displacement” he said.
He thanked partners at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Royal Norwegian Embassy, supporters of the Tripartite Partnership Project.
Ojukwu also thanked the media for their support in ensuring that the dashboard achieves its purpose.
” I will also want to use this opportunity to appreciate the presence and support of other development partners and friends of human rights.
” Let us be guided by empathy, commitment, and a steadfast dedication to upholding the dignity and rights of every individual in Nigeria” he said.
Mr Hilary Ogbonna, Senior human rights adviser to the Executive Secretary presented the dashboard report. (NAN)
