By
Isma’il Iliyasu Abdul.
The Human Rights Foundation of Nigeria (HURFON) has called on members of the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and instead report violations through the proper legal channels.
The organisation made the appeal during the commemoration of the International Human Rights Day held at its office opposite the old Bayero University Kano.
The event, chaired by the HURFON chairman, Alhaji Mohd Bello Abdullahi Gadon Kaya, featured presentations by Shari’ah law experts, including the Secretary of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ungogo Branch, Barrister Bello Muktar, as well as Barrister J.S. Gani and Barrister Abdullahi Gumel.
The experts enlightened participants on the constitutional provisions for the protection of human rights and the legal processes available for seeking redress against abuses, torture, exploitation, or violation of the rights of individuals, including women and children.
HURFON chairman Alhaji Mohd Bello Abdullahi Gadon Kaya, expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the organisation’s officials across various local government areas. He urged anyone whose rights have been violated not to take the law into their own hands but to contact HURFON directly or visit the organisation’s headquarters for assistance.
During the interactive session, participants asked questions on how to pursue justice for themselves or for vulnerable individuals and orphans whose rights had been infringed. The legal experts provided further clarification and guidance.
In their goodwill messages, the Managing Director of Radio Kano, Comrade Abubakar Adamu Rano — represented by Comrade Nura Bala Ajingi — along with counterparts from Arewa Radio and Express Radio, represented by Bashir Dirimin Iya and Abubakar Sale Yakubu, pledged continued media support to the organisation in its mission to promote and protect human rights.
This year’s Human Rights Day theme emphasized prayers and collective efforts for protection against terrorists and kidnappers, as well as the pursuit of lasting peace across the country, rather than engaging in celebrations at a time when many citizens are mourning loved ones lost to violence or abductions.
