In a resolute statement commemorating World Human Rights Day, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) passionately championed justice, freedom, and equality for all citizens in Nigeria. The statement, signed by National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, addressed critical issues, emphasizing the urgent need for a renewed commitment to the rule of law, a cornerstone of a robust democracy.

At the forefront of HURIWA’s concerns is the recent controversy surrounding appointments within the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The organization contended that the rule of law demanded unwavering respect for judicial decisions, irrespective of one’s position or influence, especially in the ongoing legal battle over the removal of Senator Ifeanyi Ararume as the non-executive chairman.

“The appointment of a new non-executive Chairman amid the Federal High Court’s reinstatement of Senator Ararume highlighted the fragile state of the rule of law in the nation. HURIWA emphasized the importance of adhering to the court’s decision until a valid stay of execution was granted, asserting that the rule of law was an obligation for the sake of justice, not a discretionary choice.

In a strong call for justice, HURIWA reiterated its plea for a reversal of recent NNPC appointments pending the determination of the appeal in Senator Ararume’s case. The organization urged President Tinubu and the federal government to recognize the binding nature of the court’s decision and actively seek an amicable resolution with Senator Ararume.

Addressing other pressing human rights concerns, HURIWA shed light on the prolonged and seemingly unjust detention of notable figures, including Godwin Emefiele, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and Abdulrasheed Bawa, the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

“In June 2023, Bawa was arrested by the Department of State Service (DSS) hours after his suspension by President Bola Tinubu over alleged abuse of office. Despite the arrest, no formal charges were brought against him, and he was released on October 25, 2023. Simultaneously, Emefiele faced charges of illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, filed on July 13, 2023. Initially held without charge, the DSS withdrew firearms charges on August 17, leading to new corruption charges”.

HURIWA called for a transparent and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Emefiele and Bawa’s resignations, emphasizing the need for clarity and accountability in these complex cases. The organization further expressed apprehension about the perceived deviation and compromise of the judiciary’s independence, urging self-reform for the impartial dispensation of justice.

Aligning with this year’s World Human Rights Day theme, “Freedom, Equality, and Justice for All,” HURIWA issued a resounding call for a collective commitment to upholding these principles, asserting that a just and egalitarian society required these fundamental rights deeply embedded in the nation’s fabric.

In a passionate conclusion, HURIWA called on all stakeholders – government bodies, civil society organizations, the media, and the international community – to unite in demanding unwavering respect for the rule of law. The organization underscored the profound significance of choices made on that day in defining the nation’s future course.