National President of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Comrade Uche Wisdom Durueke, has challenged Nigerian rights groups to be creative and look inwards for funding rather than relying on foreign donors.

“Nigerian NGOs usually wait for foreign donors but that should not be the way,” Durueke said. “Start and do whatever is possible. If they come and support you, all well and good.”

The CLO President was speaking while chairing an event organised at Ontsha by the International Society for Civil Liberties & the Rule of Law (Intersociety) to mark the 2014 World Human Rights Declaration Anniversary.

He noted that the event was not supported by any foreign donor development partner. “That shows the ingenuity of Intersociety,” Durueke said.

The rights chieftain praised Intersociety Board Chairman Emeka Umeagbalasi and his team for having worked tirelessly over the years to build a vibrant rights group against all odds.

“Intersociety has become a brand,” Durueke observed, adding: “It started like a mustard seed but has become an oak tree.”

He further noted that Intersociety has carved a niche for itself, especially in the area of critical research.

Intersociety, according to the CLO President, is dogged and consistent. “These are ideals which we should all pursue if we want a better society. It has become a case study for those of us who wish to take social action in our society,” he stated.

The event, held last Sunday night at the Retreat and Conference Centre of the Knights of St. Mulumba, witnessed lectures and the maiden Intersociety awards for excellence which went to immediate past Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, and House of Reps member, Hon. Victor Afam Ogene.

•Photo shows CLO President, Comrade Uche Wisdom Durueke.