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Peter Obi Urges Nigerians to Uphold Human Rights and Embrace Unity on Human Rights Day
Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, took to his X handle on Tuesday to mark Human Rights Day, adding his voice to the global call for the protection of fundamental human rights.
His message, following his participation in International Anti-Corruption Day on Monday, strongly emphasized the importance of respecting the inalienable rights of every individual, regardless of their tribe, social status, or religion.
Obi highlighted that human rights are the foundation of peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.
He pointed out that, as citizens, it is crucial to reflect on how far Nigeria has come in ensuring the rights of its people are respected.
Unfortunately, according to Obi, the current state of human rights in the country is disheartening.
“Human rights are the foundation for peaceful, just, and inclusive societies,” Obi said.
“On a day like this, we ought to judge for ourselves how we have progressed or retrogressed in respecting the human rights of our citizens.”
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) recently reported that it receives over two million complaints annually related to human rights abuses in Nigeria.
But Obi acknowledged that these are just the ones brought to light—many others go unreported due to fear or lack of the ability to challenge these violations.
“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,” he remarked.
Obi’s comments come amid disturbing statistics that paint a bleak picture of the country’s human rights record. In 2022, Nigeria was ranked 21st among countries with the worst human rights and rule of law violations globally.
More recently, in 2023, Nigeria was also listed as the 15th weakest state out of 177 countries on the Fragile State Index, reflecting ongoing challenges in governance, rule of law, and human rights protections.
It was reported that former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan has allegedly purchased a presidential candidate form for the 2027 elections.
It can be noted that Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015.
This information was revealed by Sani Useni, a special assistant who made the claim. Many reacted to the news, with some expressing interest in seeing Jonathan return to power after staying relatively quiet politically since his administration ended.
However, Jonathan has not yet addressed the public or officially shared any presidential ambition.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has reacted to the recent abduction incident in Oyo State.
It can be recalled that schools were attacked by armed men, with some teachers and students reportedly taken. Some people were also killed during the attack.
CAN cried out on behalf of the public, stating “It is intolerable, disgraceful and utterly unacceptable that Nigerian children can no longer sit safely in classrooms without the fear of being kidnapped by armed gangs.”
The organisation also stated that Nigerians are tired of constantly mourning and questioning when something will finally be done to stop the violence.
The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has revealed that seven teachers were abducted following a recent attack on a school in the state.
It was also shared that the number of students taken is still being investigated.
The governor further revealed that some people were killed during the attack and abduction.
He also added “With the pressure on the terrorists and the bandits in the North-West, they will keep moving southward.”
“When you have pressure in one place, we must be prepared on this side to either repel or neutralise any terrorists fleeing the pressure points.”
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