The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations in 1948, has stood as a cornerstone of global human rights advocacy. Among its 30 articles, Article 5 condemns torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, a principle central to upholding human dignity. Article 3 further asserts the rights to life, liberty, and security, establishing these as inalienable foundations of freedom. At the heart of the declaration, Article 1 declares, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. They are endowed with reason and conscience and should act towards one another in a spirit of brotherhood.” These principles collectively serve as both a moral compass and a legal benchmark for nations, including Nigeria, to measure their commitment to protecting human rights.
Each year, the celebration of International Human Rights Day offers a moment to reflect on the universality and urgency of these rights. This year, observed on December 10th with the theme “Our rights, our future right now” highlights the need for immediate action. Human rights are not abstract ideals or distant goals; they are essential safeguards for dignity, equality, and justice that must be upheld without delay. The day challenges societies to evaluate how well they protect these rights and highlights the vital role of governments in bridging the gap between principles and practice. True progress is only possible when nations move beyond rhetoric and commit to creating systems that respect, protect, and fulfill the rights of every individual.
Nigeria’s current situation contrasts UDHR principles.
However, after many years of democratic governance in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, the gap between these ideals and the lived reality of many citizens remains stark. The country grapples with systemic human rights violations that challenge the UDHR’s vision. For instance, the ongoing economic crisis has rendered basic rights to food, shelter, and healthcare unattainable for millions. This directly contravenes Article 25, which guarantees everyone a standard of living adequate for health and well-being. Amid widespread poverty, many Nigerians face inadequate access to essential services, exposing the government’s failure to prioritise the well-being of its citizens.
Moreover, cases of human rights abuses persist, with reports of extrajudicial killings, police brutality, and military excesses casting a long shadow over governance. The 2020 #EndSARS movement and the 2024 hunger protests highlighted systemic violence, with Security forces accused of unlawfully killing unarmed protesters. Moreover, the plight of children, particularly in northern Nigeria, where access to Education is severely limited, illustrates a broader neglect of citizens’ rights. Recent incidents, such as the assault on a couple by a military team in Abuja, which allegedly left the victims with an eye injury and a fracture, and the reported abuse of an Uber driver by a legislator, further exemplify the pervasive Culture of impunity by law enforcement.
Comprehensive strategies for change in Nigeria.
In comparison, nations like South Africa and India have confronted similar human rights challenges but have taken notable strides in addressing them. South Africa’s constitution explicitly guarantees socio-economic rights, compelling the state to take progressive steps to improve housing, healthcare, and education. India, despite its vast population, has implemented schemes like the Right to Education Act, which ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14. Nigeria could draw valuable lessons from these countries by instituting comprehensive reforms and strengthening its institutions to better protect and promote human rights.
In addition to systemic reforms, efforts must focus on eradicating torture and improving detention conditions, a concern recently highlighted by the UN. The establishment of the Office of the Public Defender in Lagos State is a commendable step, ensuring access to justice for marginalised individuals. Such initiatives should be replicated nationwide, with lawyers encouraged to provide pro bono services to champion the cause of justice. Public enlightenment campaigns by the National Orientation Agency and Civil Society organisations can further empower Nigerians to demand accountability and respect for their rights.
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As the world commemorates Human Rights Day, the Nigerian government must recommit to upholding the UDHR’s principles. This includes educating Security Agencies on respecting citizens’ rights, enforcing legal safeguards against torture, and holding perpetrators accountable. Building a culture of human rights is not only a legal obligation but a moral imperative that ensures the dignity, liberty, and security of every citizen. Only through genuine and sustained efforts can Nigeria move closer to realising the vision of “Our rights, our future right now.”