The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has urged the government to ensure the independence and effectiveness of the judiciary as a prerequisite for human rights in the country.
The NBA made this call in a statement issued by its president, Yakubu Maikyau, on Sunday, to mark the International Human Rights Day and the 75th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR).
The UDHR, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948, is a landmark document that proclaims the inherent rights and freedoms of all human beings, regardless of their race, religion, gender, or any other status.
This year’s theme for the Human Rights Day is ‘Dignity, Freedom and Justice for All,’ with the slogan, “StandUp4HumanRights”.
Mr. Maikyau said the NBA, as an association that aims to promote and protect the rule of law and human rights, aligns with the theme and the slogan of the celebration.
He said the concept of ‘justice for all’ is unattainable without an independent judiciary, adding that individual rights and freedoms will remain a mirage without a truly independent and competent judiciary.
He lamented the declining public confidence in the Nigerian judiciary, which he said is often accused of corruption, perverse decisions, and non-adherence to precedents.
He said the NBA will continue to advocate for judicial reforms and accountability, as well as the protection of the rights of lawyers and judges.
“For human rights to thrive, there must be in place a judiciary that commands the respect and confidence of the people – members of society must have confidence in the capacity and integrity of the court to dispense justice”, the statement said.
Maikyau urged the government to respect the separation of powers and the independence of the judiciary, as well as to provide adequate funding and security for the judicial arm of government.
He also called on the citizens to stand up for their rights and to hold the government accountable for its obligations under the UDHR and other human rights instruments.
He said the NBA will continue to partner with other civil society organizations and stakeholders to promote and defend human rights in Nigeria.
“The NBA reaffirms its commitment to the ideals and principles of the UDHR and pledges to uphold the dignity, freedom and justice for all Nigerians”, he added.
