By Folusho Alade, Abuja
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged religious leaders to always play a pivotal role in shaping the moral values of their followers, guide their conscience and help foster unity in our communities as their voices carry immense weight .
Speaking at a one day Human Rights Sensitisation and Awareness Creation for Religious Leaders last Thursday in Abuja, Dr.Tony Ojukwu,OFR, SAN the Executive Secretary, National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, said religious leaders have voices that carry immense weight in their communities as their teachings inspire millions to uphold dignity, compassion and mutual respect.
Ojukwu, represented by Dr. Benedict Agu, at the one-day sensitisation and awareness creation programme
meant to create awareness and sensitise religious leaders in the FCT on human rights, peace building and conflict resolution enjoined the participants to engage themselves in open dialogue, sharing experiences and learning from one another so as to strengthen their collective efforts to build societies where justice prevails, and peace is sustained.
In his words: “In a world often divided by conflicts, inequality and misunderstanding, your leadership is more crucial than ever in bridging divides and advocating for the fundamental rights of all individuals,”
“By engaging in open dialogue, sharing experiences and learning from one another, we can build societies where justice prevails, differences are respected and peace is sustained.” the ES said.
Ojukwu further said the National Human Rights Commission as part of its mandate will provide avenues for public enlightenment, research and dialogue in order to promote awareness on human rights issues.
Citing the efforts of the Commission in this regard at the national level, Ojukwu said the NHRC has taken steps in monitoring the impact of conflicts on human rights across States such as Benue and Plateau.
“This commitment stands as a testament of our collective dedication to healing, accountabilities and sustainable peace.” Ojukwu said.
According to him the sensitization programs were designed to deepen understanding of human rights principles as it aligns with the country’s diverse faith as well as, exploring practical strategies for peace building.
The event which drew participants from all walks of life had a robust technical session with papers delivered by the likes of Barrister Saka Azimazi Esq, a human rights consultant, who talked on the topic “The role of Religious Leaders in Promoting Human Rights and Peaceful Coexistence, CSC Tersoo Shaapera Ph.D, who spoke on “Safe school Declaration: Ensuring right to education through the protection of school from attack”.
The session also had Henrietta Okechukwu, counselor, NHRC counseling unit speaking on “Principles of Counseling and Mediation: The role of Religious Leaders”.
There were questions, comments and discussions from participants after which Mrs Agharese Arase, director (HRE&P) National Human Rights Commission gave the closing remarks.
