The Guardian named 2024 Human Rights Newspaper of the Year

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) yesterday honoured The Guardian as the ‘Human Rights Newspaper of the Year 2024’ for its balanced reporting, commitment to human rights advocacy, and dedication to serving humanity.

The award, presented during the 2024 International Human Rights Day celebration, was accompanied by a certificate of recognition highlighting The Guardian’s role in promoting human rights issues.

During the event, held at the CDHR Lagos branch, families of notable human rights advocates who had passed away were also recognised. The daughters of the late Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), Dr Idiat Fawehinmi and Mrs Basirat Fawehinmi-Biobaku, as well as Mrs Nike Beko, who represented the Ransome-Kuti family, were among the recipients.

The honourees included Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), Mohammed Fawehinmi, Dr Beko Ransome-Kuti, Comrade Bamidele Aturu, Pa Alfred Inbere, and others. CDHR president, Comrade Debo Adeniran, in his address, urged the government to prioritise human rights by strengthening institutions, enforcing laws that protect vulnerable groups, and promoting accountability and transparency in governance. He emphasised the need to protect freedoms of expression and association while combating discrimination in all its forms.

“Governments must empower communities, invest in education, healthcare, and sustainable development, and ensure justice, equality, and environmental protection,” he said.

Adeniran further stressed the importance of combating the climate crisis and ensuring access to a safe and healthy environment for future generations. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Human Rights: Addressing the Challenges Facing Nigeria”, focused on the country’s persistent human rights issues.

The event was chaired by former CDHR president, Mr Malachi Ugwummadu, who paid tribute to past leaders and martyrs of human rights struggles. Ugwummadu reflected on their commitment despite technological limitations at the time and assured that their legacies remain impactful.

Kehinde Adeoye, CDHR Lagos State chairman, decried Nigeria’s human rights violations, including disregard for court orders and the rule of law. He called on the government to uphold its commitments under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), to which Nigeria is a signatory.

The CDHR urged Nigerians to embrace solidarity and actively contribute to creating a society where everyone’s rights are respected and protected. “Human rights are not abstract ideals; they are the foundation of our shared humanity and the bedrock of our nation’s future,” Adeoye noted.