By Godwin Ajom
As the fight against human rights violations continues to gain momentum across Nigeria, a nongovernmental organization, the Cleen Foundation, in collaboration with the media, Civic Society Organizations, the government, and partners, has launched a Human Rights Violations Management Information System (HRMIS) in Calabar, Cross River State.
The HRMIS platform is developed to provide citizens with first-hand and on-the-go opportunities to report any form of rights violations by security agencies (especially the police and military), engaged in counter-military operations.
The platform is also meant to “provide citizens with a faster and cheaper means of reporting human rights violations in line with 21st century best practices. In addition, the platform allows victims to upload evidence (Video, audio, pictorial, and others) without risking losing it in the course of travels and or further violations by the same agency,” Cleen Foundation says.
The platform was launched at a crucial Policy Dialogue on Gender, Accountability, and Transparency in Implementation of the Administration of Criminal Justice Regime with the theme: “Role of technology in promoting accountability and access to justice” held in Calabar.
The Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, Mr. Gad Peter, addressing stakeholders, said the program is a shared commitment to advancing justice, equality, and integrity within the criminal justice system.
He added the administration of criminal justice is a cornerstone of any society, providing the framework for the rule of law, protection of rights, and upholding public trust. However, the framework must be continually assessed and reformed to ensure it serves all community members equitably.
According to him, accountability within the criminal justice system ensures that law enforcement agencies are held to the highest standards; and fosters a culture of integrity and trust among practitioners and the public they serve. Without robust mechanisms for accountability, injustices are unchecked, eroding public confidence and undermining the rule of law.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Edema Irom, chided the role of parenting in combating human rights violations. She noted that “all hands must be on deck to ensure that rights of women, children, girls and other segments of the society are guaranteed.