By Audu Abba Kurama
The National Human Rights Commission Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, has inaugurated the Borno State Working Group on Business and Human Rights (BWGBHR).
According to him, the working group will promote responsible business practices that respect and uphold human rights. Inauguration of the committee comprising the commission, civil society organisations, government agencies, and development partner yesterday (Monday), in Maiduguri, Ojukwu disclosed: “Our collective efforts were to promote responsible business practices that respect and uphold human rights.
” He noted that this could deepen commitment that aligns with the Nigerian business environment with international human rights standards. He, therefore, charged the working group to ensure extensive consultations involving the human rights commission and relevant government agencies.
Ojukwu urged the committee members to adopt the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAPBHR) by the federal government. “It provides the working group with a comprehensive national legal and policy framework,” he said, noting that NAP will promote and protect human rights within business operations in the country.
He reiterated that the Business and Human Rights Act was established to guide the implementation of the NAPBHR throughout the country.
The Executive Secretary said that it is the commission’s efforts to mainstream NAP at the state level by some pilot states.
As part of the effort to mainstream it at the state level, the NHRC has identified some pilot states, including Borno State. “You are to adapt the National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights at the state level,” he charged the committee.
In her remarks at the inauguration, the Borno State Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Barr. Hauwa Abubakar, stated that the Special Independent Investigative Report (SIIP) will address the serious allegations of human rights violations in the Northeast. She noted that the investigative panel’s commitment could also uncover the truth in ensuring justice in such a challenging circumstance. According to her, the findings of the report resonate deeply with the ongoing challenges faced by the various communities in Borno State.
Additionally, she said the complexities of counter-insurgency operations, along with the dire conditions experienced by the displaced populations, demand urgent attention and action.
Explaining that, “The testimonies gathered and the insights provided by this investigation are invaluable as we strive to enhance human rights protections and ensure accountability for any violations.
On the part of the state government, she said that Governor Babagana Zulum has been addressing the humanitarian needs of the people in the over a decade-long Boko Haram insurgency.
She added that the governor ensures that humanitarian aid and assistance are delivered in a manner that respects the dignity of every individual.
“Zulum has consistently emphasised the importance of providing support that not only addresses immediate needs but also upholds the rights and humanity of the recipients,” noted the Attorney General at the inauguration of the panel.