Peter Obi, the former presidential candidate of Nigeria’s Labour Party, has expressed deep concern over the alarming state of human rights abuses in the country. Speaking in a statement issued on Tuesday to mark the 2024 Human Rights Day, Obi criticized the persistent violations of citizens’ rights and called for immediate reforms to protect the dignity and freedom of all Nigerians.

Obi lamented Nigeria’s international reputation as a nation plagued by human rights violations, noting the country’s disheartening position on global rankings. “Our nation has sadly remained notorious for human rights abuse,” he said, highlighting Nigeria’s 21st-place ranking among countries with the worst human rights records in 2022 and its 15th position on the Fragile State Index in 2023.

He described the daily realities of extrajudicial arrests, abuse of power by politicians, and the suppression of freedom of speech as glaring issues that have left many Nigerians vulnerable.

The former governor of Anambra State also pointed to the hostile environment for journalists in Nigeria, where arrests and harassment have stifled the media. He referenced data from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which receives over two million complaints annually concerning rights violations.

“Millions more lack the willpower or voice to seek help against the abuse of their rights,” Obi added.

Obi urged the nation’s leaders to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the fundamental rights of citizens. He emphasized the critical need to bridge ethnic and religious divides to foster unity and peace.

“Respect for the rule of law and human rights remains the biggest intangible asset any nation can have,” he said. “It not only fosters peace in the country but also makes it attractive to foreign investors and external organizations.”

As the world reflects on the principles of equality and justice on Human Rights Day, Obi challenged Nigerians to evaluate the country’s progress—or lack thereof—in advancing human rights. He called for collective efforts from leaders and citizens alike to break free from the patterns of exploitation and division.

“The commemoration of today’s event should inspire leaders to champion the respect of the rights of our people,” Obi stated.