CEHRAWS Joins the Global Community in Commemorating the 2024 UDHR Day at its Headquarters in Aba
December 10, 2024. Aba, Abia State, Nigeria.
CEHRAWS JOINS THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY IN COMMEMORATING THE 2024 UDHR DAY AT ITS HEADQUARTERS IN ABA
The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) a member of Abia Civil Society Network (ACSON) joins the global community in commemorating Universal Declaration of Human Rights Day. This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” highlights the urgent need for immediate action to uphold human rights as the cornerstone of a sustainable and equitable future.
As our country continues to grapple with widespread human rights abuses, reflecting systemic challenges across governance, security, and justice sectors. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and other credible organizations reported alarming rise in violations nationwide, ranging from police brutality and extrajudicial killings to gender-based violence and suppression of free speech.
In 2024 alone, the NHRC reportedly received over 1,200 formal complaints of human rights abuses in Abia State. These complaints span a range of violations, including arbitrary detentions, harassment by security forces, and gender-based violence. Notably, NHRC officials have highlighted that actual cases may exceed 5,000, considering unreported incidents and informal complaints lodged through phone calls and walk-ins.
The South-East region has been a hotspot for security operations aimed at curbing unrest, but these efforts often result in collateral damage to civil liberties. In Abia State, extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, and community displacements have been widely reported. Security forces have been implicated in abuses that contravene international human rights standards, exacerbating tensions and eroding public trust.
Gender-based violence remains a pressing issue, with cases of domestic abuse, rape, and other forms of violence against women and girls frequently underreported. Judicial bottlenecks further compound the problem. Abia’s judiciary faces a shortage of judges, leading to delays in prosecuting cases and securing justice for survivors. This judicial inefficiency not only discourages victims from seeking redress but also emboldens perpetrators.
In light of these troubling realities, CEHRAWS calls for immediate and concerted action to address human rights violations in Abia State and across Nigeria. Our recommendations include:
*Judicial Reforms:* The state judiciary must be strengthened by appointing more judges and allocating adequate resources to expedite case resolutions. A judiciary overburdened with excessive caseloads undermines the delivery of justice.
*Accountability for Security Forces:* Independent investigations must be conducted into allegations of extrajudicial killings, harassment, and other abuses by security agencies to disabuse the populace from seeing this administration as an accomplice. Officers found culpable should face prosecution to deter future violations.
*Support for Gender-Based Violence Survivors:* Establish comprehensive support systems for survivors, including shelters, legal aid, and trauma counseling. Community sensitization programs should also be implemented to challenge cultural norms that perpetuate violence against women.
*Collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs):* The government must work closely with CSOs to monitor, report, and address human rights abuses effectively. Such partnerships can amplify advocacy efforts and ensure grassroots impact.
*Public Awareness Campaigns:* Increase public education on human rights to empower citizens to recognize and report violations. Awareness is a critical tool for prevention and advocacy.
CEHRAWS acknowledges the efforts of Dr. Alex Chioma Otti’s administration in addressing human rights issues in Abia State. The recent engagement of state authorities with the civil society actors demonstrates a commitment to improving the human rights landscape. Initiatives such as advocacy campaigns against gender-based violence are commendable steps in the right direction.
However, there is still much to be done. We urge the government to intensify its efforts by implementing systemic reforms and fostering stronger collaborations with civil society organizations. Together, we can create a society where every individual enjoys the dignity, justice, and equality they deserve.
Our rights define our future. The time for action is now.
Signed,
*Chuka Peter Okoye*
Executive Director,
Phone: +234-803-552-9865
Email: cehraws@gmail.com
*About CEHRAWS:*
The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) is dedicated to promoting human rights and combating social vices through advocacy, education, and strategic initiatives. Our mission is to create a wholesome society where every individual can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
For more information, visit:
@cehraws (Facebook, X, & Instagram).
