International Human Rights Commission in Nigeria

07/07/2025

Diplomatic Appeal Calls on President Tinubu to Uphold Constitutional Rights of Retired Police Officers; IHRC Steps In: A Call for Justice in Police Pension Welfare

The appeal, titled “A Diplomatic Appeal for Police Pension Welfare Reform in Line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” was signed by H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Head of IHRC’s Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria. The document points to constitutional irregularities in the current pension scheme for Police officers, specifically referencing Sections 17(3)(f) and 34(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which enshrine the dignity and welfare of all citizens—particularly public servants.

This action directly echoes and supports the persistent advocacy of Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun for comprehensive pension reform.

Continue reading in the comment section.

05/07/2025

The International Human Rights Commission, Nigeria, has thrown its weight behind the renewed push by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun,

05/07/2025

IHRC Backs IGP Egbetokun’s Renewed Push for Police Pension Reform, Urges President Tinubu to Address Constitutional Breach in CPS

In a bold and constitutionally grounded intervention, the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Corporation in Nigeria has issued a diplomatic appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, urging an urgent reform of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) as it affects Nigeria’s retired Police officers. The call echoes the persistent concerns of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, who has continuously advocated for a holistic restructuring of the current pension system for the Nigeria Police Force.

The IHRC's formal appeal, titled "A Diplomatic Appeal for Police Pension Welfare Reform in Line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria", was signed by H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Head of the Commission’s Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria. It highlights the constitutional irregularities embedded in the current pension structure for Police officers, citing provisions from Sections 17(3)(f) and 34(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandate that the dignity and welfare of all citizens—especially those in public service—must be respected and upheld.

This high-level diplomatic correspondence comes on the heels of the most recent engagement held on July 1, 2025, where IGP Egbetokun received delegations from the National Association of Retired Police Officers of Nigeria (NARPON), led by AIG Paul O. Ochonu (Rtd), and a coalition of CPS retirees led by CP Henry Njoku Esq (Rtd), at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

During the meeting, the IGP reassured the delegations of the Nigeria Police Force's unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of retired personnel. He acknowledged the “deep-seated inadequacies” of the CPS and pledged to pursue sustainable solutions to ensure timely and adequate disbursement of retirees’ entitlements. He affirmed, “Our retirees deserve dignity, support, and a structure that reflects their sacrifice and service to Nigeria.”

This commitment aligns with the IGP’s earlier remarks in February 2025, during an interactive session with retired Police officers at the Police Resource Centre in Jabi, Abuja, where he described the CPS as an “inadequate arrangement” that has left thousands of Police pensioners in distress due to meager benefits and long payment delays.

The IHRC's appeal adds legal and diplomatic weight to the growing national outcry, urging President Tinubu to act in line with his Renewed Hope Agenda, which promises reforms centered on social justice, constitutional governance, and improved public sector welfare. “Reforming the Police pension system is not only a matter of human rights and dignity—it is a constitutional obligation,” Dr. Hezekiah stressed.

The Commission argued that, unlike military retirees who are exempt from the CPS and enjoy a more tailored pension structure, Police officers—who equally face life-threatening duties—are left with an ill-fitting scheme that contradicts the nature and demands of their service. This, IHRC says, must be rectified if the administration is truly committed to equity and national security reform.

As the nation reflects on the contributions of retired Police personnel, the IHRC, NARPON, and the Nigeria Police Force have now formed a powerful tripartite voice calling for justice, reform, and restitution. The ball now lies in the court of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose leadership on this issue could define a new era of constitutional fidelity and genuine care for the men and women in uniform who gave their all for Nigeria.

Reported
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications, IHRC Nigeria.

03/07/2025

IHRC Nigeria’s Dr. Duru Hezekiah Lauds SMM's Grassroots Impact During Community Outreach

Alike, Imo State – The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Corporation in Nigeria reaffirmed its grassroots-driven humanitarian mission during a profound outreach exercise in Alike Community, Imo State, under the auspices of its Month of Community Service Initiative. The event, attended by high-ranking officials and community leaders, delivered vital relief to residents while reinforcing IHRC’s unwavering commitment to dignity, compassion, and justice.

Leading the IHRC Nigeria delegation was H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru C. Hezekiah, Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission, who praised the event as a powerful testament to the IHRC’s people-centered mandate. The outreach featured payment of medical bills for indigent patients, as well as distribution of essential food supplies, directly addressing pressing healthcare and hunger concerns among vulnerable households.

“This was more than aid—it was human solidarity in motion,” Dr. Hezekiah remarked. “We were not just serving meals or clearing hospital bills; we were restoring hope and reminding these families that they are not forgotten.”

A highlight of the outreach was the conferment of a Humanitarian Service Award on Rev. Fr. John Damian Adizie, Director of Works at the Divine Mercy Humanitarian Foundation. The honor recognized his exemplary contributions to humanitarian efforts and community development.

Dr. Duru Hezekiah used the occasion to applaud the leadership of Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, National Coordinator of the IHRC Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) in Nigeria, for his tireless work in spearheading the Commission’s outreach programs across the country.

“Comrade Echendu’s devotion to this cause is evident in every detail,” Dr. Hezekiah noted. “His strategic oversight and unyielding passion have given structure and soul to this initiative. Through his leadership, we are witnessing how community-centered diplomacy can transform lives.”

Also commended were IHRC-SMM volunteers across Nigeria, whose consistent service in the field has powered the Commission’s ability to reach underserved communities. Their commitment, often carried out in challenging circumstances, remains the backbone of IHRC's grassroots operations.

In his closing remarks, Ambassador Hezekiah expressed profound appreciation to Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, Secretary-General of the International Human Rights Commission, for his visionary global leadership and continued support of the Special Monitoring Mission. According to Dr. Hezekiah, Prof. Wasik's influence has enabled IHRC Nigeria to scale its operations and deliver meaningful impact in marginalized communities.

“As we continue through this Month of Community Service, let us remember that the work of justice is not limited to a date on the calendar,” Dr. Hezekiah said. “It is a way of life, powered by empathy and sustained by action.”

The IHRC’s Alike outreach, as well as other outreaches carried out by the IHRC SMM Officials, underscores the Commission’s strategy of empowering the underserved and transforming humanitarian diplomacy into tangible community change—one act of service at a time.

Authored:
Fidelis Onakpoma
IHRC Head of Media and Strategic Communications – Nigeria

03/07/2025

During the visit, Comrade Hassan Mohammed Adamu, State Coordinator of IHRC Borno State, sincerely appreciated National Coordinator Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu for his continuous encouragement and visionary leadership.

He further reaffirmed IHRC’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian service across Nigeria, especially under the guidance of Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah.

Humanitarian Outreach Brings Hope and Relief to Vulnerable Children Maiduguri, Nigeria | July 2025 Essential Support for Young Patients In a remarkable demonstration of compassion and community engagement, the Borno State Chapter of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) has extended criti...

03/07/2025

This impactful service stands as a direct result of the vision and guidance of the National Coordinator of the Special Monitoring Mission, Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, whose strategic leadership consistently inspires grassroots initiatives nationwide.

Special commendation was extended to His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Head of Diplomatic Mission of IHRC in Nigeria, for his diplomatic foresight and institutional support, which underpin the Commission’s capacity for sustained humanitarian action.

Community Service Month Highlights Humanitarian Action and Collaborative Responsibility Kaduna, Nigeria | July 2025 Strategic Support for Community Health at Yusuf Dantsoho Hospital In a notable demonstration of community-driven humanitarian commitment, the Kaduna State Chapter of the International....

02/07/2025

Compassion in Action: IHRC Delivers Medical Aid to Patients at Marvelous God Hospital in Alike, Imo State.

02/07/2025

Compassion in Action: IHRC Delivers Medical, Food Support and Honors Humanitarian Hero in Alike, Imo State. “Because what we today, we do for generations".

01/07/2025

IHRC Uplifts Alike Community with Medical Aid, Humanitarian Recognition, and Food Empowerment

In an inspiring show of solidarity with the underprivileged, the International Human Rights Commission - Special Monitoring Mission (IHRC-SMM), Imo State Chapter, in line with IHRC’s grassroots outreach vision grandly executed its Community Service Initiative with a compassionate outreach that combined medical assistance, humanitarian recognition, and food empowerment for the people of the Alike community in Obowo Local Government Area, Imo State.

This intervention, part of a nationwide IHRC-SMM community service rollout, reflects the Commission’s unwavering commitment to promoting human dignity, addressing inequality, and enhancing the quality of life in vulnerable communities across Nigeria.

The event featured several key components, including the payment of hospital bills for indigent patients, the distribution of essential food items, and the conferment of a Humanitarian Service Award on Rev. Fr. John Damian Adizie, Director of Works at Divine Mercy Humanitarian Foundation, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to humanitarian causes.

The occasion was attended by the Head of Diplomatic Mission and Ambassador-at-Large of IHRC, His Excellency Ambassador Duru Hezekiah, and the National Coordinator of IHRC-SMM Nigeria, Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu. They were accompanied by notable dignitaries including the South-East Regional Volunteer Coordinator, Comrade Philip Ikekwerre; the Imo State Zonal Volunteer Coordinator, Comrade Chiemezie Ezeani; former and current Chairmen of Obowo LGA—Dr. Ray Emerenini and Hon. Barr. Obioma Ehirim, respectively, as well as respected traditional rulers and community leaders.

The outreach commenced with a hospital visitation to Marvelous God Hospital and Maternity, where the IHRC-SMM team paid the full medical bills of three patients, ensuring their prompt discharge. In addition, the team donated bags of rice and cartons of noodles to every patient in the facility, bringing comfort and relief to their families during challenging times.

A central highlight of the event was the formal presentation of a Humanitarian Certificate to Rev. Fr. John Damian Adizie. Ambassador Duru Hezekiah, in his address, lauded the priest's unwavering commitment to the welfare of the vulnerable, describing him as a beacon of hope in humanitarian circles. He also highlighted IHRC’s global humanitarian engagements, including recent relief efforts in Gaza, and encouraged traditional rulers and local leaders to join hands with IHRC in championing grassroots development and human rights advocacy.

The National Volunteer Coordinator, Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, emphasized the role of partnership and collaboration in addressing systemic human rights violations and enhancing community resilience. He reiterated IHRC’s readiness to work with local actors to deliver timely interventions across the region.

To further support the community, IHRC-SMM, in partnership with Divine Mercy Humanitarian Foundation, empowered five selected residents and distributed food supplies—comprising bags of rice and cartons of noodles—to over 200 indigenes of Alike Community. The gesture was warmly received, with community leaders extending their profound gratitude to IHRC for its selfless and sustained impact.

This landmark initiative by the IHRC-SMM Imo State Chapter represents a model for community-centered humanitarian engagement. It not only affirms the Commission’s global mandate to protect and promote human rights but also echoes the values of compassion, service, and inclusive development.

As communities continue to face economic hardship and healthcare challenges, efforts like these serve as a beacon of what is possible when institutions, leaders, and citizens come together for the common good.

Issued by
Onakpoma Fidelis
International Human Rights Commission in Nigeria

01/07/2025

IHRC Champions Grassroots Health Support at Yusuf Dantsoho Hospital in Kaduna

Kaduna, Nigeria – In a shining example of community-driven humanitarian action, the Kaduna State Chapter of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) has carried out a significant outreach program at Yusuf Dantsoho Memorial Hospital, Tudun Wada, as part of their activities marking the month of Community Service.

Led by State Coordinator Grace Yohanna, the IHRC team donated critical health supplies, including mosquito nets, bleach, and Izal, reaffirming their steadfast belief that “health is wealth.” Beyond material support, the volunteers also undertook a thorough sanitation of the hospital premises, demonstrating their holistic approach to community care.

Yohanna, in her remarks, emphasized the importance of collaborative responsibility between citizens and government, noting, “If individuals don’t come together to help the government, how will the whole thing run?” She further urged corporations, NGOs, and international bodies to rise to the call of humanitarian duty, stating, “What we do today is for generations to come.”

This act of service stands as a reflection of the enduring vision of the IHRC’s leadership in Nigeria, particularly under the guidance of the National Coordinator of the Special Monitoring Mission, Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu. His unwavering direction and strategic oversight continue to inspire grassroots efforts like this, reinforcing the Commission’s operational presence nationwide.

Also worthy of special commendation is the leadership of the Head of Diplomatic Mission of IHRC in Nigeria, His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, whose diplomatic foresight and institutional support have sustained the Commission’s humanitarian outreach at both national and local levels.

Nurse Jamaa Kandejo Echebet, of the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit, welcomed the delegation with deep appreciation. “We really appreciate it. Thank you,” she said, affirming the positive impact the materials will have in protecting patients and improving hygiene standards within the facility.

Echebet echoed a call to well-meaning Nigerians and philanthropic entities to emulate the IHRC's example and support similar interventions, either in kind or cash. “This is not just for the hospital,” she noted, “but for the larger message of community engagement and responsibility.”

Through consistent actions like this, the IHRC Kaduna Chapter, under the national and diplomatic leadership of Comrade Echendu and Ambassador Dr. Hezekiah respectively, continues to reaffirm its commitment to dignity, health, and hope for all.

Reported
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

30/06/2025

Ceremony attended by IHRC Commissioner as Chief Guest 📅 June 8, 2025, Sabaragamuwa, Sri Lanka Celebrating Academic Excellence The Sri Lanka Institute of Professional Studies and Skills Development (SLIPSSD) celebrated the academic achievements of 700 students at its 2025 Education Awards Ceremony...