Nigerian Lawyers Could Address 180,000 Human Rights Cases Annually On Pro Bono Basis, Says Prof. Oyewo (SAN)
Prof. Oyelowo Oyewo, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has proposed that if every lawyer in the country took on just one human rights case pro bono each year, up to 180,000 cases could be addressed annually. This bold suggestion was made during a conference organized by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to mark the 76th celebration of International Human Rights Day, held at the Nigerian Law School in Lagos.
The conference, themed “Human Rights in Crisis: Addressing the Challenges Facing Nigeria,” brought together legal experts, advocates, and law students to discuss strategies for tackling human rights challenges in the country. Prof. Oyewo emphasized that human rights should not just be viewed as a legal issue but as an inherent right belonging to every individual. He underscored, “Human rights belong to everyone. Without human rights, there can be no peace.”
He also advocated for the inclusion of human rights education in school curricula and called for it to be translated into indigenous languages to ensure wider understanding. Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, echoed this sentiment, stressing the need for expansive human rights education.
Discussing the state of human rights in Nigeria, Prof. Oyewo pointed out the slow pace of legal reforms but acknowledged some progress, such as the compensation of 600 victims of the End SARS protests with 1.5 billion naira. He also highlighted the enforcement of the Cybercrime Act, which addresses issues related to cybercrime. However, he lamented the high level of impunity in the country, with accountability rates near 90%.
Bisi Makanjuola, Chairman of the NBA Lagos Branch, reiterated the importance of fundamental rights, particularly the right to life, liberty, and dignity. He stressed the need to strengthen the rule of law in Nigeria.
Despite the existence of numerous human rights laws, Ahmed Raji, SAN, noted that Nigeria continues to grapple with violations of civil, socio-economic, and political rights. Hon. Justice Taiwo O. Taiwo (Rtd.) pointed out that national security concerns often overshadow constitutional rights, leading to ongoing human rights violations, including police brutality, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on freedom of expression.
Senator Shehu Sanni reflected on the history of human rights violations in Nigeria, lamenting that even after 25 years of democracy, activists continue to face persecution. He called for renewed commitment to human rights education and advocacy.
The conference also addressed global human rights issues, with Prof. Ademola Popoola highlighting serious abuses in conflict zones, such as Gaza, Syria, and Ukraine. He called for increased international support to address these violations.
Esther Ifeoma Jimoh, Chairperson of the NBA Human Rights Committee, who organized the event, emphasized the growing threats to human rights in Nigeria and the need for ongoing advocacy on issues like governmental accountability and access to justice. She also outlined the Committee’s efforts during its 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, including press releases, police visits, community sensitization walks, and planned meetings with law enforcement and justice officials.
In conclusion, Raji recommended strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing civil spaces, fostering inclusivity, and pursuing judicial reforms to address human rights abuses in Nigeria. Prof. Chioma Kanu Agomo added that a unified, community-driven approach, including restorative justice, is crucial to tackling these challenges.
