Dear Distinguished Community Leaders, the Honourable Comrade Vik-Morrow, Honourable Obianuju Kanu-Ogoko
and Esteemed Participants.
I am honored to address you all today 23rd July 2024, as the Country Director of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC-RFT) Nigeria Chapter. My presence here is driven by a steadfast commitment to human rights, justice, and equity, which are the bedrock of a just society. I wish to extend my solidarity to The Honourable Comrade Vik-Morrow and all those who suffered in the recent peaceful protest, “Operation Power Must Return to the People,” held on 18th July 2024.
The fundamental human rights of Comrade Vik-Morrow and others were egregiously violated. Reports indicate that Comrade Vik-Morrow was subjected to brutal treatment in the presence of law enforcement officers. This not only violates human decency but also breaches several critical provisions of both national and international human rights laws.
Article 5 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) unequivocally states that “No one shall be subjected to torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.”
Similarly, Section 34 of the Nigerian Constitution guarantees every individual the right to the dignity of the human person and explicitly prohibits torture and inhuman, or degrading treatment. These rights are not merely words on paper; they are the foundational principles upon which our society should be built and maintained.
As we gather here under the theme “Injustice to One is Injustice to All: Solidarity with Comrade Vik-Morrow,” it is crucial that we reaffirm our collective commitment to human rights. We must ensure that the dignity of every individual is preserved and that justice is not a privilege for a few but a right for all. This requires us to be vigilant, proactive, and unwavering in our stand against any form of human rights abuse.
Our mission is not just to highlight these injustices but to actively work towards creating a society where such violations are not tolerated. We must advocate for a transparent investigation into the events of the 18th of July, hold those responsible accountable, and ensure that such incidents do not recur.
In his address to the assembly, I urge us all to focus on the broader picture of justice and human rights. Our goal should be to foster a culture of respect, dignity, and equity, which transcends political affiliations and speaks to the core of our shared humanity.
Let us be reminded of the words in Article 1 of the UDHR: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.” We must uphold these principles and ensure that the rights of every individual are respected and protected.
Thank you for your commitment to this cause. Together, we can build a just and equitable society where human rights are upheld, and the dignity of every individual is preserved.
Thank you all,
Amb. Capt Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu (rtd)
Country Director, IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter
