The National Human Rights Commission has conferred the award of “Grand Commander of Human Rights Defenders” on late Chief Gani Fawehinmi for his contributions to the promotion of human rights in Nigeria.
At an award night held on Thursday in Abuja to mark the 20th anniversary of the commission, Fawehinmi was praised for his contributions to check violations of fundamental human rights in the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that 15 other Nigerians were also honoured for their contributions to the advancement of the rule of law, and defence of fundamental human rights.
They included Femi Falana, Maryam Uwais, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, retired General Theophilus Danjuma, Zaaki Azzay and Senator Rabi’u Kwakwanso, among others.
Prof. Bem Angwe, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, said the recipients were honoured to encourage other Nigerians to recognise, respect and support the rights of others.
Angwe said the commission was committed to bringing hope to vulnerable Nigerians, promising that it would continue to strike a balance among business, security and the protection of human rights.
He said: “We honour some distinguished Nigerians who, in our humble opinion, are considered as being deserving; we are not saying that they are the only Nigerians that have demonstrated love or respect for human rights.
“We have only chosen a few as there are many thousands of Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in this regard.
“Awarding them this honour, is only a demonstration of the fact that the commission wants to encourage their work so that other Nigerians can emulate what they are doing.”
Responding on behalf of the awardees, Kwakwanso commended the commission for finding all the award recipients worthy of the honour.
He promised that the recipients would not relent in the fight against human rights violations in continuation of their service to humanity.
NAN.