Forging Alliances for Justice: Social Action Engages National Human Rights Commission for Landmark People’s Tribunal
-
by
saction_
PORT HARCOURT – In a significant step towards amplifying citizen voices and advancing human rights accountability, Social Action, in partnership with its progeny, the Civil Rights Council (CRC), has embarked on a strategic collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). An advocacy team from Social Action paid a high-level visit to the NHRC headquarters in Port Harcourt, solidifying a partnership for an upcoming landmark initiative: The People’s Tribunal Program.
The visit, led by Social Action’s Peter Mazzi, and including Barrister Arochukwu Paul, Peace Agbo, Isaac Desmond, and Frank Nonubari of the CRC, was part of a broader strategy of engaging critical stakeholders. The delegation was warmly received by the NHRC the South-South Coordinator, Mrs. Chinwe Okoroji, and her team, including Dr Mrs. Obianuju Alimole Esq, Mrs Jane Obomegbulem and Sopuruchi Onyeso.
A Platform for Truth and Accountability
During the meeting, Peter Mazzi outlined the core mission of the visit: to formally introduce the NHRC to the planned People’s Tribunal Program. He described the initiative as a vital civic platform designed to bring together experts, activists, and community members to examine serious allegations of rights violations.
During the meeting, Peter Mazzi outlined the core mission of the visit: to formally introduce the NHRC to the planned People’s Tribunal Program. He described the initiative as a vital civic platform designed to bring together experts, activists, and community members to examine serious allegations of rights violations.
Mazzi explained. “Our goal today is to secure the buy-in of the Commission and to benefit from your invaluable suggestions and input to ensure this program is not only successful but also impactful.”
Building on a Foundation of Partnership
Adding to this, Barrister Arochukwu provided a compelling summary of the longstanding relationship between the NHRC and the Civil Rights Council. He highlighted the CRC’s notable achievements in building the capacity of state and security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Army, and the Civil Defence Corps, through targeted training programs.
“The People’s Tribunal is conceived as a structured, evidence-based forum to hear cases on critical issues, with a particular focus on environmental justice and civil rights infringements,” – Mazzi
“We commend the NHRC for its steadfast support and partnership over the years, which has been instrumental in our past successes,” Barrister Arochukwu stated. “This Tribunal is a natural progression of that work. It will feature a five-member independent jury, provide a platform for citizens to present their petitions, and be open to the public to witness the proceedings. The final judgments will serve as a powerful working document for future advocacy and a compelling reference for driving policy change.”
NHRC Welcomes Initiative, Pledges Collaborative Support
In her response, Director Mrs. Okoroji expressed deep appreciation for Social Action’s proactive and innovative approach to defending civil rights. She commended the organization for its consistency and pledged the Commission’s commitment to working closely with Social Action to achieve the program’s objectives for the benefit of all citizens.
“The NHRC has participated in similar programs and we recognize the immense value they bring to the human rights ecosystem,” Mrs. Okoroji noted. “We will apply our wealth of experience to make this a success. We will move to obtain the necessary approvals for the level of participation required to give this initiative the weight it deserves.”
Echoing the Director’s sentiments, Mrs. Kelechi of the NHRC offered insightful recommendations to broaden the Tribunal’s scope. She suggested incorporating elements of human trafficking and gender-based violence, potentially involving agencies like NAPTIP (the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons).
She also highlighted the unique authority the NHRC’s involvement would bring, stating, “With the Commission’s participation, the judgments obtained from this Tribunal may transcend being merely a working document. They can carry a moral and institutional weight that is binding on the feuding parties, thereby enhancing the pursuit of resolution and justice.”
A Unified Path Forward
The meeting concluded on a highly optimistic note, with both organizations reaching a consensus to continue the process, discussions, and engagement. This collaborative spirit marks a critical milestone in the journey toward the People’s Tribunal, signaling a powerful alliance between a grassroots-driven civil society and a national statutory body.
This partnership promises to create a formidable force for justice, ensuring that the voices of the people are not only heard but also become a catalyst for tangible change.
