The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has joined the global community in commemorating International Human Rights Day 2024, with an urgent call for immediate action against injustices and violations of human rights. This year’s theme, “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” underscores the necessity of addressing pressing human rights issues to build a more equitable and sustainable society.
In a statement released today, CDHR emphasized the critical role of human rights in fostering a thriving democracy, guaranteeing dignity, equality, and freedom for all. Despite Nigeria’s constitutional and international commitments to uphold these rights, challenges such as insecurity, inequality, corruption, and systemic barriers to justice continue to hinder progress.
“Millions of Nigerians face violations daily—ranging from gender-based violence to the suppression of free speech, lack of access to quality healthcare, and the marginalization of vulnerable communities,” stated CDHR National President Debo Adeniran. “These injustices demand immediate and sustained action.”
CDHR outlined specific steps to address the nation’s human rights challenges:
1. Civil Society and Citizens: Stay vigilant, demand accountability, and promote a culture of human rights awareness.
2. International Community: Provide technical and financial support to Nigeria’s human rights agenda while holding violators accountable.
3. Government: Strengthen human rights institutions, enforce protective laws, and prioritize transparency and accountability in governance.
Additionally, CDHR urged the government to:
Protect Freedoms: Safeguard freedom of expression, association, and access to information while combating all forms of discrimination and inequality.
Promote Justice: Build institutions that ensure accountability and protect citizens from violence and oppression.
Empower Communities: Invest in education, healthcare, and sustainable development to enable all citizens to thrive with dignity.
Combat the Climate Crisis: Uphold environmental rights to ensure a safe and healthy planet for future generations.
CDHR stressed that addressing human rights challenges requires inclusive efforts, particularly the active involvement of youth, women, and marginalized groups whose lived experiences are essential for transformative change.
“We urge all Nigerians to embrace solidarity and work collectively to create a society where everyone’s rights are respected and protected,” Adeniran added. “Together, we can turn ‘Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now’ into more than a slogan—it can become a reality.”
As the world marks International Human Rights Day 2024, CDHR calls for renewed commitment to upholding human rights as the foundation of Nigeria’s future. By addressing injustices today, the nation can achieve equity, justice, and dignity for all.
