NBA Ikeja Holds Public Lecture to Commemorate World Human Rights Day

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja Branch, on Wednesday marked World Human Rights Day with a well-attended public lecture focused on pressing human rights issues in Nigeria. The lecture, organised by the NBA Ikeja Human Rights Committee, attracted prominent members of the legal profession, civil society advocates, and leading media houses, creating a platform for open discussions on the state of human rights in the country.

With the theme “Human Rights; Our Everyday Essentials – The Right to Safety and Security”, and the topic being  addressing insecurity and mass killings in Nigeria amidst global uncertainties, addressing critical concerns such as the right to free speech, gender equality, the protection of vulnerable groups, and Police brutality.

In his opening remarks, NBA Ikeja Chairman, Mr Adeniyi Quadri, stressed the importance of legal professionals playing a pivotal role in safeguarding human rights, especially in a nation grappling with significant challenges.

The Keynote Speaker for the event, Commodore (Rtd) Kunle Olawunmi delivered a passionate address, highlighting the critical role of the Judiciary in upholding human rights and security. He emphasised that while progress has been made, “we must not rest on our laurels, as many Nigerians still face severe human rights abuses, grappling with security challenges. Our courts, government, and society must be more proactive in providing safeguarding the lives and properties of Nigerians, as well as defending the fundamental rights of its people”.

Panelists at the event included Omoyele Sowore, Prof Emmanuel Edem Okon, AIG Adegoke M. Fayoade, and Kuti Ezebiro, PhD, all shared their deep insights on human rights abuses and the gaps in the enforcement of laws meant to protect citizens. Dr Ezebiro discussed the challenges posed by laws that limit freedoms under the guise of national security, while AIG. Adegoke spoke on the need for better training for law enforcement officers to ensure the protection of fundamental rights and protection of Nigerians

The event also served as a platform to call for more robust reforms in Nigeria’s legal system. One of the Panelists noted, “The legal framework in Nigeria must be aligned with international standards to ensure that human rights are not just written on paper, but are actively protected and enforced”. The lecture underscored the growing need for legal practitioners to advocate not only for legal justice, but for human rights justice.

In closing, the event was marked by a call to action from the NBA Ikeja Branch, urging both the Government and the people to recommit to respecting and defending human rights. “Human rights are the bedrock of a democratic society”, said Mr Adeniyi Quadri.“It is our collective responsibility, to ensure they are not eroded in any way.” The public lecture, streamed live across various media channels, ended with a renewed sense of solidarity and responsibility among those in attendance.