INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHS DAY: Kano NBA calls for stricter global observance
PRESS RELEASE
Today, the 10th of December, marks the International Human Rights Day, a day to reflect on the state of human rights globally.
Unfortunately, the current situation in Nigeria and internationally is marred by gross human rights violations. In Nigeria, armed groups continue to wreak havoc on innocent citizens, leaving trails of destruction and despair.
The Nigerian government must take decisive action to eradicate these armed groups and bring perpetrators to justice.
The humiliation and degrading treatment of underage persons for participating in the End Bad Government protest is absolutely unacceptable and must be strongly condemned. We demand a thorough investigation into these incidents and call for the perpetrators, including the Inspector-General of Police, to be held accountable and sanctioned accordingly. This is in line with international law, which prohibits torture and other forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment.
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The condition of inmates in our prisons is another issue of great concern that warrants urgent attention. Overcrowding, lack of trial within reasonable time as stipulated by the relevant legislations, inadequate healthcare, and limited access to legal representation are just a few of the challenges faced by inmates. The relevant authorities must take positive actions to alleviate the suffering of inmates.
On the international scene, the discovery of horrifying secret detention centers, such as Sednaya prison, operated by the Al Assad regime of Syria, is a stark reminder of the atrocities committed against innocent citizens. The international community must demand justice for these heinous crimes and hold Assad and his cohorts accountable.
As we commemorate the International Human Rights Day, we must reiterate the importance of protecting human rights and dignity. Bodies like the Human Rights Commission must be seen to be discharging their statutory roles to investigate and give appropriate remedy against human rights abuses. Governments, both in Nigeria and globally, must take concrete actions to prevent human rights violations and ensure that perpetrators face justice.
Let us use this day to renew our commitment to upholding human rights and dignity for all.
Yours
Usman Umar Fari Esq.,
Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Kano Branch.
