In commemoration of the celebration of the 71st International Day of Human Rights, Society for Women and Youths Affairs joins the to rededicate and reaffirm her commitment for the promotion and protection of human rights in Nigeria and the world at large. As the world again is standing up for Human Rights through activities that educate the public on issues of Human Rights, mobilization of political will and resources to address global problems, and also to celebrate and reinforce achievements of humanity, we align with this vision. The interesting theme for this year commemoration: YOUTH STANDING UP FOR HUMAN RIGHTS is one of interest as young people bring fresh ideas and solutions for a better world and nation.
Here in Nigeria, the level of Human right awareness is dicey as there seems to be a kind of complacency among the populace. Our Judicial system seems eroded with issues that bother on corruption and porosity in service delivery. The ordinary man in the street is so skeptical of approaching our temple of Justice for re-dress in the event of abuse of their rights. Other State actors like Security agencies are also clogs in the move for rights re-dress and prosecution of offenders. Timely investigation and arraignment of offenders is not given its rightful place especially in cases involving sexual violence, child rape and violence against women.
Rather than being channels of complains and resort, security agencies have turned themselves into extortionist and bribe collectors first hand before a complaint can be lodge or investigated little wonder there is palpable fear among the populace in approaching the police on matters concerning rights violation or abuse. Many road users have lost their lives in the cause of their day to day living where they refuse to part with bribe money to security agencies as passport to continue on their journey.
Several human rights violations abound and the case of Child trafficking in Nigeria readily comes to mind. Young person’s inadvertently leave their homes with the promise that they will be given a better life and opportunity but end up coming back to the age long slavery challenges the world had to run away from as it was degrading to humanity and against all-natural norms. Our young people are the future hope of our country. Hence the need to create an enabling environment for our youth to think right, act right and live right at homes, schools, churches, market and work places just to mention some grassroot corners of the society.
In-dept and absolute Knowledge of Human right is key for any nation that is on the path of growth and development. This cannot be over emphasized. Naturally human rights are personal property and cannot be said to be acquired as a result of your status, financial standing, race, age or gender. We are inherently given it from our mother’s womb. That being said, if we have right to life, it equally means we are entitled to conditions that make life livable. Health services should be affordable and accessible to everyone irrespective of how much your pocket holds at the moment. Quality education should be top priority and open to every child notwithstanding parents’ financial wherewithal. Shelter is non-negotiable for every citizen; every person deserves livable accommodation irrespective of financial status at the moment. All this can be in place if our political class and followers believe in the inalienable right of all and sundry.
Finally, Society for Women and Youths Affairs (SWAYA) calls on parents, teachers, political and religious leaders to as a matter of urgency come together and come up with policies that can bring about sustainable solutions to Human Rights Issues in Nigeria. It is possible.
Stella Amanie
Executive Director.