The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reported a total of 339 alleged human rights violation cases in Gombe State for the year 2024.
This was disclosed by the NHRC spokesman, Mr. Ali Alola-Alfinti, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe.
Alola-Alfinti highlighted that the majority of the cases involved parental neglect, with fathers abandoning their children and wives.
He attributed these actions to economic hardship and poverty, which remain pervasive challenges in the state.
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According to the spokesman, the surge in reported cases can be credited to intensified public awareness campaigns on human rights violations.
“We are now getting more victims coming to report. This is good for the campaign against rights violations,” Alola-Alfinti stated.
He noted that silence had been a significant obstacle in addressing human rights issues, as the protection of rights hinges on victims coming forward to report violations.
The NHRC, in collaboration with civil society organisations, media outlets, religious leaders, and community leaders, has actively educated the public on the importance of speaking out against rights abuses.
This collective effort has encouraged more victims to come forward, contributing to the significant number of cases recorded.
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“The commission recorded 339 cases, and we believe it is as a result of the support from other relevant stakeholders,” Alola-Alfinti said.
“Parental neglect constitutes about 50 percent of the complaints, including family abandonment without food, clothing, and shelter.
This is unlike before when fundamental human rights issues, such as the right to life, dignity, and protection from inhuman or degrading treatment, dominated our reports.”
The NHRC has scaled up its outreach programs to address parental neglect. Alola-Alfinti emphasized that husbands and fathers must fulfill their responsibilities to their families, stating that failing to do so constitutes a punishable offense under the law. “Denying them of their rights is a punishable offence under the law,” he said.
The spokesman underscored the critical role of rights protection in conflict prevention and fostering a peaceful society.
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“When we respect each other’s rights, we will have a peaceful community. But when you infringe on another’s rights, there will be retaliation and a chaotic society,” he added.
The NHRC’s commitment to addressing human rights violations in Gombe State reflects broader efforts to promote justice and equity across Nigeria.
The commission’s sustained enlightenment campaigns continue to play a vital role in empowering citizens to assert their rights and contribute to a more just and harmonious society.