PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has written the Senate, seeking the screening and subsequent confirmation of fifteen nominees to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), in a move aimed at strengthening the country’s human rights protection framework.
The letter was read by the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.
The letter seeks the reconstitution of the commission’s board in line with statutory provisions.
The list comprises nominees from diverse professional backgrounds, including the media and legal sectors.
At the centre of the nominations is Dr. Salamatu Hussaina Suleiman, who has been proposed as chairman of the board, while Dr. Anthony Ojukwu (SAN), is to serve as Executive Secretary.
Other nominees include
Mr. Chinonye Obiaku (SAN),
Mrs Roseline Tasha,
Ambassador Adam Yubak Baku,
ACG Felix Lawrence,
Mr. Edmund Chinonye,
Oluwakemi Asiwaju Okere-Odo,
Professor Adedeji Ogunji,
Kingsley Chidozie,
Mohammed Adelodu,
Maupe Ogun Yusuf, and
Otunba Francis Meshioye as members.
Also nominated are Patience Patrick and Hawwa Ibrahim, listed as members.
The President said the nominations were made pursuant to Section 2(3) of the National Human Rights Commission (Establishment) Act, 2010, which empowers him to constitute the board subject to Senate confirmation.
He explained that the reconstitution of the board was necessary to enhance the commission’s institutional capacity and enable it to more effectively discharge its mandate to promote and protect human rights across the country.
Following the presentation of the request, the Senate referred the nominations to its Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters for screening and report within two weeks.
If confirmed, the new board is expected to play a critical role in reinforcing the NHRC’s oversight functions, particularly at a time of heightened concerns over rights protection and accountability in Nigeria.
