There are moments in the life of the Bar when our collective conscience is stirred, moments that remind us why we chose this noble profession. This year’s International Human Rights Day, as marked by the NBA Ikorodu Branch, is one of such defining moments.
The theme, “Strengthening The Justice Chain: Human Rights, Accountability & Community Partnership,” is more than a programme headline; it is a sober call to every lawyer to reaffirm the soul of our work, justice rooted in compassion, vigilance, and partnership with the communities we serve.
I must applaud the leadership of the NBA Ikorodu Branch, particularly the Human Rights Committee, for curating a two-day programme that is both courageous and visionary. The decision to begin with direct visitation to police stations and detention facilities shows a rare willingness to confront human rights issues at the very frontlines, where silence has harmed citizens for too long.
And the Community Dialogue, Summit, and the Launch of the Human Rights Compendium scheduled for Day 2 reflect a branch committed not only to advocacy but to building sustainable structures for justice, learning, and community empowerment. This is leadership that understands impact. This is the Bar at its finest.
As lawyers, we carry the weight of people’s hopes each time we advocate, intervene, advise, or simply show up. I encourage members of the Ikorodu Bar to embrace this moment with renewed passion. Human rights work is never glamorous, but it is always transformative. Let us continue to lend our voice to the voiceless, strengthen weak institutions, and insist, as officers of the court, that the dignity of every person remains non-negotiable.
I celebrate the Branch, its Executives, and every committed volunteer whose effort gives meaning to this commemoration. May this year’s observance ignite deeper conviction and inspire a renewed culture of accountability across our justice system.
Signed,
Barth Aniche Okoye
Immediate Past Publicity Secretary,
Eastern Bar Forum
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