Abuja: Stakeholders in Nigeria’s justice and governance sector have called for stronger enforcement of human rights, improved access to justice, and greater use of public interest litigation as a tool for democratic accountability. The call was made at the official launch and dissemination of the ‘Guide to Human Rights and Public Interest Litigation in Nigeria’, on Monday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was organised by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) with support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). In his welcome address, PLAC Executive Director, Clement Nwankwo, said the guide was developed to strengthen the culture of human rights activism and litigation in Nigeria. Nwankwo highlighted that the guide describes law as a powerful instrument for social engineering and reform, encouraging Nigerians to challenge rights violations through the courts rather than accept abuse.
Nwankwo expressed concern over persistent human rights violations across the country, including cases of prolonged detention without trial. He pointed out that victims often lack access to justice due to limited legal awareness, and noted delays in bail processes as troubling and incompatible with justice delivery.
Justice Emmanuel Agin of the Supreme Court, in his remarks, stressed the need for a fact-based assessment of the judiciary’s role in human rights protection. Agin cautioned against generalised criticisms that overlook the progress made by the courts and urged commentators to rely on specific evidence when making claims of rights violations. He emphasized the importance of constitutional rights, particularly the right to vote, and called for greater awareness and promotion of constitutional guarantees.
Peter Makinde, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Human Rights, described the guide as a significant milestone for strengthening access to justice and reinforcing democratic governance. Makinde stated that the manual provides a practical roadmap for human rights litigation and serves as a valuable resource for lawyers, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and policymakers. He reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to upholding the rule of law and strengthening institutions that protect fundamental rights.
FCDO Governance Adviser, Matthew Ayibakuro, highlighted public interest litigation as a cornerstone of democratic accountability. He noted that rights must transition from constitutional guarantees to practical enforcement, with the guide strengthening the capacity of legal practitioners, civil society actors, and public institutions. Ayibakuro reaffirmed FCDO’s commitment to supporting locally driven reforms that enhance democratic governance, human rights protection, and the rule of law in Nigeria.
The stakeholders collectively expressed optimism that the publication would deepen access to justice, strengthen accountability, and enhance human rights protection in Nigeria.