Every year the "HUMAN RIGHTS DAY" is globally observed on the 10th of December by all international committees in order to reaffirm the inherent dignity and unalienable rights of all human beings.
It is also the celebration of the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948, which provided a common standard of achievement for all people and all nations to strive to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Human rights are our basic rights. Some of these rights are the right to life and dignity, right to personal liberty, right to health, education, freedom of speech and thought, enjoyment of equal rights irrespective of sex, religion, belief or race etc.
These rights are sacrosanct based on the principle of respect for all individuals devoid of any kind of discrimination or relegation. These rights must be protected for our peaceful coexistence. Thus, violations of any of these human rights is a crime against humanity.
Sadly, despite the universal campaign on the respect and protection of these rights even with different legislations backing them, the absolute preservation of human rights all over the world still appears to be more of an illusion than a reality. Disrespect for basic human rights continues to be wide-spre ad in all parts of the globe. Violations still exist in every part of the world, including our country, Nigeria.
Some of these human rights violations include child trafficking, violence against women/girls, sexual harassment, early marriage, child labour, rape, discrimination and lack of social equality, denial of freedom of expression, extra judicial killings, abuse or torture by security personnel, war crimes, acts of insurgence that have caused displacement of people from their communities and places of abode, loss of people’s right to education, shelter and health amongst many others.
This year's observance calls on everyone to stand up for someone's rights. We need to reaffirm our respect for humanity. Wherever we are, we can make a real difference in the protection of our rights be it at home, the streets, in school, at work, in our various communities, in the voting booth or on social media. Help stop violations of our human rights.
I also appeal to our security agencies, the Human Rights Commission, activists, civil society, public and private organzations, traditional and religious leaders and the media, to intensify their efforts in creating awareness and ensuring that human rights are protected and preserved, and that justice prevails at all times.
Let us all recommit our support for the preservation of our fundamental freedoms and protection of the human rights of all.
God bless and keep you and your families.
From Her Excellency,
Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike,
The Wife of His Excellency,
Ezenwo Nyesom Wike CON.
The Governor of Rivers State.
