Respected Human Rights Activist, Femi Falana has called on Nigerians not to leave violation of their fundamental human rights to God to judge, but insisted that they should approach the court to file a case.
Speaking in Abuja at a programme: “A strategic dialogue on accessing remedies for human rights violation in Nigeria,” organized by the National Human Rights Commission, Falana said: “God wants you to fight tyranny. When your rights have been violated don’t keep quiet about it.”
Falana advised that instead of leaving human rights violators to God, “Run to the office of your lawyer to file a case. You may be very lucky damages may be awarded.”
The legal jurist who equally alleged that Nigerian government is notorious for non payment legal charges, said: “My advice to government is that if you want to stop impunity you must pay charges.”
He equally advised that any security officers found to have violated human rights of citizens should be made to share in the payment of the penalty with the government or its institutions.
Falana decried the non adherence to the 35 percent affirmative action of women in public office, insisting that it was unfair and unlawful, he noted that if there had been a gender imbalance among the panel at the event, he would not have participated in the programme.
He however commended Kwara State Governor for ensuring gender balance in the appointment of commissioners which stands at 50-50 percent, advising other states to borrow a leaf.
The Executive Secretary of NHRC, Tony Ojukwu reaffirmed the commitment of the organisation to fighting against the violation of human rights of any Nigerian.
He insisted that the Commission is independent of government and has the power to ensure compliance to human rights.
Michael Olugbode in Abuja
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