The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has inaugurated the Kebbi State Office of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Birnin Kebbi, calling on stakeholders to support the Commission in its efforts to safeguard human rights across the country.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Fagbemi commended the NHRC for its unwavering commitment to protecting human rights, both nationally and internationally. He emphasized the Commission’s independence as enshrined in Section 6(3) of the National Human Rights Commission (Amendment) Act, 2010, which ensures the Commission operates without interference.
“The Federal Government remains committed to supporting the NHRC in its mission to promote and protect human rights, aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” Fagbemi said.
The AGF acknowledged President Tinubu’s dedication to human rights, citing the swift restoration of the NHRC Governing Board following its initial dissolution alongside other parastatal boards. He also praised the Kebbi State Government for donating land for the office and pledged continued federal support for the Commission’s work.
In her remarks, the Chairperson of the NHRC Governing Council, Dr. Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, appealed to the federal government for additional funding to complete the construction of the remaining 22 state offices. She stressed the importance of fully resourcing the Human Rights Fund to enhance the Commission’s operations.
The NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (OFR, SAN), reiterated the Commission’s commitment to upholding human rights despite challenges such as ignorance of rights, limited access to justice, and the non-justiciability of certain constitutional provisions.
Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala, pledged the state’s support by donating an operational vehicle and ensuring the office is connected to the national power grid.
Dignitaries at the event included the Chief Judges of Kebbi and Sokoto States, the Emir of Gwandu, Major-General Mohammadu Iliasu Bashar (CFR, mni), members of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, and the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.
