In this interview, the State Coordinator of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Ondo State Office, Mr. Sunday Oyewole, speaks with Mary Agidi on human rights–related policies and violations in Ondo State.
Can you speak briefly on International Human Rights Day?
International Human Rights Day represents a lot of things, especially in the Nigerian context. It is a day set aside to ensure that the rights of every citizen and resident of this country are truly protected, as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
It is a day dedicated to people living in servitude, people who seem to have lost all hope—the vulnerable groups—so that they can have a sense of belonging as humans. That is why it is celebrated every year all over the world, and Nigeria is not exempted.
We also engaged youths, encouraging them to desist from certain violent acts such as cyberbullying and media-related extortion, which are now rampant
We created awareness on unlawful arrest and detention by the police and assured them that such cases would be taken up by the Commission.
What human rights concerns have you observed in Ondo State?
Over time, there have been cases of rape, especially involving minors, which we strongly condemn. Rape of minors and incest are purely human rights violations and are completely unacceptable.
We have heard of cases involving fathers having carnal knowledge of their daughters and stepfathers abusing their stepdaughters; brothers sleeping with sisters. These acts are absurd and ungodly. However, we believe that such cases are gradually reducing. Compared to where we started from, there is now some appreciable progress.
Are there notable interventions the Commission has carried out between January and now? Can you share some success stories?
There was a case of unlawful arrest and detention by the police in Uso. A man came to our office complaining that his brother had been detained for allegedly impregnating a girl. He stated that the girl was 19 years old, but the police claimed she was 17.
When we investigated the matter, we discovered that the girl was actually an adult, and appropriate steps were taken.
There have also been several cases of violence against women, child abandonment and gender-based violence (GBV).
We have received complaints from women whose husbands beat them, as well as cases of assault and fathers abandoning their parental responsibilities.
In handling such cases, we always emphasise the value of life. Marriage is not compulsory. While we do not encourage divorce, we sometimes advise couples to separate temporarily rather than risk loss of life. During separation, they may later find reasons to reconcile.
Another growing concern is drug abuse among young adults. Youths are the strength of a nation, and we do not want such issues to ruin our society.
There was a case last month involving a student of Igbinedion University in 500 level whose father refused to continue paying his school fees. We invited both parents, and they broke down in tears. They explained that although they sent him to school to learn, he had mixed with bad company and got involved in drugs.
We counselled the young man and even arranged support from NDLEA officials regarding his drug-related issues. It was painful to see parents in their 50s shedding tears over such a situation. We are still following up on the case and praying for a positive outcome.
I want to emphasise that our services here are completely free. We do not charge a dime. In some cases, especially involving vulnerable persons, we even provide assistance for transportation when necessary.
What more can be done in Ondo State to ensure the protection and promotion of human rights?
We must continue to sensitise people through sustained awareness campaigns and reach the nooks and crannies of the state. Where we cannot reach directly, we collaborate with partners, and this has yielded positive results.
We collaborate with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), SPORN, NSCDC, Parkoway, the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, and the police.
For instance, there was a case involving a minor who had just given birth in a hospital without adequate care, while the boy responsible was on the run. Since we lacked the facilities to accommodate them, we contacted the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, which promptly intervened and took the mother and baby to a safe facility.
Collaboration has been very beneficial to our work.
What challenges are limiting your activities and effectiveness?
One major challenge is that victims of rape sometimes disappear after reporting cases, even when they have strong evidence. Another challenge is pressure from individuals and groups who attempt to beg on behalf of suspects when cases are close to conclusion.
Despite such pressure, we stand our ground. These are offences against the state, and justice must be served.
What about funding?
Funding is never enough. While the Commission provides some funds for investigations, we still need more resources—especially facilities such as temporary shelters for victims of gender-based violence. We also need to expand our presence to more local government areas.
Do you have a presence in every local presence in every local government area?
No. We only have offices in the 36 states of the federation.
Do you have radio or television programmes to reach rural communities?
Yes. We have had programmes on Crest FM, particularly on land-related issues, where one of our staff represented the Commission weekly. However, due to other engagements, the programme has been on hold. We hope to revive and expand such initiatives.
Which human rights–related laws or policies are not being effectively implemented in Ondo State?
The Child Rights Law, enacted in 2007, and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law face major challenges in enforcement. If enforcement were effective and a few offenders made examples of, cases of gender-based violence would significantly reduce.
Many women return to abusive marriages due to fear, societal pressure and lack of financial independence. This is why women’s empowerment is critical to reducing gender-based violence.
What role should individuals play in promoting and protecting human rights?
Everyone has a role to play. If your neighbour is being assaulted, it is your duty to report it. People must speak out—many are dying in silence.
Religious institutions should not cover up criminal acts such as rape. Such cases must be reported to appropriate authorities. Parents must also take responsibility for their children and desist from child labour and hawking, which expose children to abuse.
Human rights protection is a collective effort. With passion for humanity, we can address the violations bedevilling our nation.
Are there toll lines through which people can lodge complaints?