*Dr. Ojukwu
… Poverty a serious human rights violation, Says Ojukwu
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the government and other stakeholders to deepen social justice efforts by guaranteeing rights protection for every citizen.
The Commission made this call against the backdrop of increasing violations of social justice and rights protection deprivations in Nigeria.
The Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, OFR, SAN, made this call to mark the 2026 World Day of Social Justice, observed annually on the 20th of February.
According to the learned Silk, “Nigeria cannot neglect social justice, which remains a precondition for social development, economic advancement, and human rights progress amid rising insecurity, inflation, youth unemployment, and climate vulnerabilities.”
Dr. Ojukwu tasked governments at all levels to launch responsive policies addressing plights of the unemployed, victims of administrative injustice, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) due to insurgency and flooding, survivors of gender-based violence, persons with disabilities, and those facing digital rights violations in the AI era.
The NHRC Boss who described poverty as a serious human rights violation highlighted economic inequality worsened by fuel subsidy removal and naira depreciation, which have spiked living costs for low-income families. Robust social safety nets are vital to prevent further hardship.
Dr. Ojukwu also addressed rising ethnic and regional tensions, urging dialogue to ensure equitable resource allocation across States.
He emphasized that fair federalism fosters unity and reduces marginalization, pointing out that this year’s commemoration is a wake-up call to seek redress for rights violations.
“Embrace NHRC mechanisms to enjoy democracy’s full benefits, government’s primary duty is citizens’ welfare and security”, he said.
Finally, Dr. Ojukwu urged sustained implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, which ensures all public buildings and digital platforms provide ramps, braille signage, and accessible tech. These will address their peculiar needs and enhance their enjoyment of human rights.
