By Omolara Adasofunjo
Members of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, have been advised to remain firm and resolute in their efforts to ensure the promotion of human rights, the rule of law, and a just and equitable society.
Chairman, Board of Trustees of CDHR, Mr Femi Falana, who was represented by a member of the Board, Mr Malachy Ugwummadu, gave the advice during the Annual General Conference of the CDHR held at the Nigeria Labour Congress Secretariat, Leme, Abeokuta.
Mr.Falana noted that widespread corruption in the country has continued to undermine the rule of law, even under a democratic dispensation.
He stressed the need for members of the CDHR to remain vigilant and consistently monitor government activities to ensure compliance with the provisions of the law.
In their separate remarks, the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Dr Lanre Ogunlowo, represented by a Chief Superintendent of Police, Mr Goddy Iteyere, and the Commander of the Ogun State Security Network Agency, So-Safe Corps, Mr Soji Ganzallo, represented by his assistant, Mr Adegbuyi Adegunwa, stated that security agencies were not opposed to lawful protests by registered groups, provided there would be no breakdown of law and order.
They assured participants of their commitment to collaborate with the CDHR in the promotion and protection of human rights through prompt action on petitions, arrests, investigation of alleged abuses, prosecution of offenders, and the enforcement of accountability.
Also speaking, the Chairman of Police Community Relations Committee, PCRC, Ogun State, Mr Popoola Samson, Chairman of Trade Union Congress, TUC, Comrade Akeem Lasisi, and the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, represented by Mr Chris Omoni, commended CDHR for its sustained fight against human rights violations.
They assured the organisation of continued support from the labour unions in the pursuit of justice and equity for Nigerians.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, Comrade Yinka Folarin, while welcoming delegates from across the country, reiterated the commitment of CDHR to monitoring human rights abuses, providing legal support to victims, and creating public awareness through education on citizens’ rights and the importance of the rule of law.
