AFRICAN CENTRE FOR HUMAN ADVANCEMENT AND RESOURCE SUPPORT (CHARS AFRICA) COMMEMORATING THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2024
PRESS STATEMENT
December 10th 2024
Aba, Abia State, Nigeria.
AFRICAN CENTRE FOR HUMAN ADVANCEMENT AND RESOURCE SUPPORT (CHARS-AFRICA) COMMEMORATING THE UNIVERSAL DECLARATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2024
Theme: “Our Rights, Our Future; Right Now!”
The African Centre for Human Advancement and Resource Support (CHARS-Africa), a pioneer member of Abia Civil Society Network (ACSON),and a leading advocate for human rights and the rule of law is issuing this statement to mark the 2024 Universal Declaration of Human Rights Day (UDHR). The theme, “Our Rights, Our Future; Right Now!”, underscores the immediate efforts required to safeguard human dignity, justice, and equity, which are foundational to global peace and sustainable development.
Although Nigeria is bound by International Instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), the country faces systemic human rights violations that demand urgent redress.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) reported an alarming number of human rights violations in Abia State in 2024, ranging from breaches of civil liberties to violations of socio-economic rights. These include extortions, extrajudicial killings, illegal arrest and detentions, gender-based violence, amongst others.
Abia State in South-East Nigeria has been militarized, which has precipitated breaches of fundamental rights. Such violations include unlawful arrests, extortion, inhumane treatment of even the detained, contravening the provisions of the Chapter four of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees protection of life and property.
Gender-based violence is particularly rampant, with systemic failures which violate the constitutional right to a fair hearing within a reasonable time as stipulated under Section 36(1) of the Nigerian Constitution.
In line with CHARS-Africa’s mandate to promote peace, equity and justice , we submit the following recommendations:
*Judicial Reform:* The government should take necessary measures that will address the issue of delay of cases.
*Strengthening Accountability Mechanisms:* Independent investigations into security forces’ actions should be instituted to ensure justice for victims.
*Comprehensive Gender Justice Frameworks:* Abia State must adopt a gender-sensitive legal framework in compliance with the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) law.
*Partnership with Civil Society:* Robust collaboration between the state and civil society organizations can enhance monitoring, reporting, and response mechanisms for human rights violations.
While we recognize the Abia State government , for its initiatives in promoting human rights and tackling systemic abuses which contributed to capturing Abia in RoLAC II project and other development agencies into Abia, we enjoin them to implement actions that will signal their commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding fundamental freedoms.
The future of Abia State, and indeed Nigeria, hinges on not just the unwavering commitment to human rights, but engaging in actions aimed at achieving such commitments. As we reflect on this year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” CHARS-Africa reiterates its dedication to legal advocacy, education, and empowerment for all citizens. Together, we can advance justice, equity, and peace.
Signed,
*Amaka Biachi, Esq*
Executive Director
09154057157
