NAN-H-59
Rights
By Veronica Dariya
Abuja, Dec. 28, 2016 (NAN) Some lawyers based in Abuja have called for intensified efforts to promote, and enforce fundamental human rights among Nigerians.
The lawyers made the call in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
Mr Jude Kaleijaiye said that increase in cases of religious intolerance around the world had reaffirmed the right of individuals to freedom of belief and religion.
According to him, it is important for every country to work toward combating incitement of religious hatred through dialogue, tolerance and education on the need to respect human rights.
Kaleijaiye also called for rigorous awareness against sexual abuse, especially of women and children, poverty and judicial reforms that would guarantee protection of all citizens.
We must shift our concern towards the incessant sexual violation of persons among others and increase criminal sanctions against such acts.
“Also, I know that the government and the international community have made great efforts in disaster relief and reconstruction of affected areas of this country.
“Let us ensure consistency by establishing and implementing new national plans on human rights to address the problem of poverty.
“On judicial reforms, the number of crimes subject to the death penalty can be reduced and the death penalty sentencing procedure made more stringent.”
Kaleijaiye, also said that the electoral law could be amended to ensure equal electoral rights for all citizens, and other laws amended to remove discrimination against those living with hepatitis B, HIV/AIDS and leprosy.
Also speaking, Mrs Theresa Mbanifo, a lawyer and activist, said that the protection and promotion of human rights must be paramount and made the pillar of every government.
According to her, these rights are necessary for peace and stability of the country and the world at large.
“Certainly, the protection and promotion of human rights and fundamental freedom should be among the basic responsibilities of every government.
“Violations of these rights should not be excused on the basis of a country’s economic development, culture, customs or political system.
“Once in order, that is, when it is in place; promoted and protected, it leads to peace and stability all over the world.”
Mbanifo urged the Federal Government to double its efforts toward the protection and promotion of human rights and the concept of human security.
She said that this could be achieved by engaging in dialogu, principally with other African countries to contribute tangible forms of cooperation, especially in the area of judicial system reform.
The lawyers also advised government to continuously enlighten its citizens and empower individuals so that everyone would realise his or her potential and live in modestly. (NAN)
DVK/AOS/EEE
============
Edited by Bayo Sekoni/Ese E. Ekama