The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on security agencies in the country to collaborate in ensuring the protection of farmers from banditry attacks and abductions.
NHRC Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu made the call while speaking with newsmen on the sidelines of the Roundtable Discussion event ,with the theme “Exploring the Economic Outlook of Nigeria” in Abuja on Tuesday.
Ojukwu emphasized that the Constitution mandates the government and its agencies responsible for security and welfare to fulfill their primary responsibility.
He stated that , “If farms are not safe, there is no food security, and every individual has the right to an adequate standard of living, which includes the right to food, shelter, and self-services.
“It is crucial that those in charge of security—the national security adviser, DSS, police, and the army—be held accountable to ensure farmers can work without fear, preventing hunger.”
Read Also:Â FG to Invest $1.1 Billion in Rehabilitation of Nigerian Ports
Highlighting the impact of insecurity on people’s lives, Ojukwu noted, “Large-scale and mechanized farms are not operational due to security concerns. Farmers are afraid to work, affecting the standard of living. Security is essential for farmers, impacting every aspect of their work.”
In his welcome address, ActionAid Nigeria Country Director Andrew Mamedu called for a redefinition of the purpose of incurring debts.
“Debts should contribute to value chain development, improve the macroeconomic framework, develop infrastructure, and build strategic human capital.”
Mamedu also stressed the need for public review mechanisms to analyze the cost-benefit of loans entered into by the federal or state governments.
