Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to reflect on the state of human rights in the country as the world marks Human Rights Day 2024.
In his message, Obi highlighted the importance of protecting fundamental freedoms, which he described as crucial for justice, peace, and equality in society.
“Human rights, as we understand, is a global desire that demonstrates the inalienable rights to which every human being, of course including every Nigerian, irrespective of tribe, social status, or religion, is entitled,” Obi stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday.
However, he expressed concern over the harsh realities many Nigerians face, pointing to widespread abuse of power, unlawful arrests, and the frequent violation of basic human rights. He stressed that such abuses have become all too common.
Obi also referenced a recent report from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which revealed that over two million complaints of human rights violations are filed annually across Nigeria.
“As much as I would like to sing the praises of our nation, however, the obvious realities witnessed daily by Nigerians are saddening.
“The gross disrespect for the human rights of the citizens, abuse of power and public offices, extrajudicial arrests and punishments for perceived wrongs, and so many other manifestations of human rights abuse stare us in the face and are very worrisome.
“The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recently reported that it receives more than two million complaints annually regarding human rights abuses across Nigeria,” he said.
He added that many victims of such abuses lack the resources or courage to seek justice, making the problem more widespread than it appears. He also pointed to concerning global rankings, including Nigeria’s position as the 21st worst country for human rights and rule of law violations in 2022, and its ranking as the 15th weakest state on the Fragile State Index for 2023.
The former presidential candidate also noted the growing dangers faced by journalists, drawing attention to Nigeria’s status as one of the most dangerous countries for the press in West Africa.
“It is worth noting that millions of others have neither the willpower to stand up against the abuse of their rights nor the voice to speak out and seek help.
“Our nation has sadly remained notorious for human rights abuse. We have been ranked 21st among the countries with the worst record for human rights and rule of law violations in the world in 2022. We are also ranked the 15th weakest state out of 177 countries measured on the Fragile State Index for 2023,” he said.
He continued, “Aside from continually denying the citizens their right to freedom of speech, we are now among West Africa’s most dangerous and difficult countries for journalists.”
Obi called for immediate action, stressing that respecting human rights and the rule of law is vital not only for peace and unity but also for attracting foreign investment and driving development. He urged both leaders and citizens to embrace shared values and work towards a more just society.
“We must, therefore, discontinue this dangerous path of ruin, which continues to hamper our development.
“Respect for the rule of law and human rights remains the biggest intangible asset any nation can have, which not only fosters peace in the country but makes it attractive to foreign investors and external organisations,” he said.
Obi expressed hope that the commemoration of Human Rights Day would inspire leaders to champion the protection of citizens’ rights, and that Nigerians would start to overcome divisions of tribe and religion to respect one another as fellow human beings.
“By the commemoration of today’s event, I hope we, the leaders, will begin to champion the respect of the rights of our people.
“I also hope that we, the people, begin to tear down the walls of tribe and religion and begin to appreciate and respect one another as humans,” he said.
