•Tasks country on unity, human rights
•Law Professor urges Tinubu to make public investigative report on Plateau, Kaduna killings
•Establish national security trust fund
Alex Enumah in Abuja
The United States of America has noted that Nigerians are the most successful and educated immigrant group in America presently.
Owing to this, the United States challenged Nigerians to be more united in the advancement of human rights and civil liberties in order to facilitate development of the country and the African continent.
Senior Advisor for the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, US Embassy, Shaun Jameel Gavin, who gave the charge, pointed out that unity, love and respect were strength capable of propelling significant progress across Nigeria and the entire African continent.
He spoke yesterday, at a ceremony organised by the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies (CSLS) to commemorate the Martin Luther King Jr.’s Day celebration in Abuja.
Specifically, Garvin urged the people to rise above the divisions of religion, tribe and ethnicity, race and colour, recognising them as remnants of a past struggle designed to fragment our humanity, as one.
“Let us rise above our differences and embrace our collective identity, honouring Dr. King’s legacy by forging a path of mutual respect, honour, and excellence.
“In speaking of unity and excellence, it’s imperative to recognise the extraordinary achievements of Nigerians worldwide. Nigerians are the most successful and educated immigrant group in America today.
“This is a testament not just to individual brilliance but to a broader culture of excellence that permeates the Nigerian spirit. Whether it’s in academia, medicine, technology, or the arts, Nigerians consistently set high standards and achieve remarkable feats. This excellence is not an accident; it is the result of relentless dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to success,” Garvin said.
He added that such achievements serve as a beacon, illuminating the potential that lies within a united efforts, adding that as Nigeria strives for progress, citizens should draw inspiration from this legacy of excellence.
“Let it remind us that when we harness our collective talents and work together, transcending tribal and ethnic divisions, there’s no limit to what can be achieved. This is the essence of the Nigerian spirit, a spirit that contributes significantly to the global African identity and the advancement of our communities everywhere”, he added.
In a welcome speech, President of the CSLS, Prof Yemi Akinseye-George, stated that the centre joined the rest of the world to celebrate the late Martin Luther King Jr, for his immense contribution in the fight for human rights.
The law professor observed that Nigeria currently, faces significant challenges related to civil liberties, adding that these challenges may include government censorship, restrictions on freedom of expression, discrimination based on race, gender or religion, lack of access to justice, and arbitrary detention.
“Most pressing challenges include the threat to human lives that currently plagues the country, ranging from the Christmas Eve killings in Plateau State, the bombing of innocent civilians in Kaduna State, the running rampant of kidnappers and unknown gunmen throughout all the sectors of the country.
“In view of these challenges, it is our duty to demand for the protection and prioritisation of our rights and safety from the government”, he said.
Akinseye-George while calling on President Bola Tinubu to “make public the reports of investigation on the Plateau killings”, stressed that, “There must be punitive measures on the wrong doers, people must be held responsible for the mishaps and threat to life.
“Furthermore, reparation and restitutions must be made for the victims and marginalised groups in Nigeria”.
He said the federal government should establish a National Security Trust Fund, that would provide succour and support to victims of kidnappings, terrorism and other violent crimes in the country.
