From TCNEWS
The Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD), a Nigerian non-governmental organization that advocates for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities and also works to promote accessibility, equality, and empowerment for persons with disabilities in Nigeria, has welcomed the news of the presence of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II) Program in Abia State.
In a release made available to newsmen by Godwin Unumeri, CCD Acting Director, the Centre recalled that it has collaborated RoLAC on various projects to promote the rights of people with disabilities in Nigeria, which include: Advocacy for inclusive legislation and policies; Capacity building for persons with disabilities; Access to justice and security services for persons with disabilities; and Promoting accessible infrastructure and transportation.
According to the release, the collaboration/partnership was aimed at ensuring that persons with disabilities are included in Nigeria’s justice and security sectors, and that their rights are respected and protected.
“CCD received with excitement the new of the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International Idea), an intergovernmental organisation with a mandate to support sustainable democracy worldwide, has chosen Abia State for its second phase of the European Union funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme”, the release partly read.
The release which disclosed that Abia State is the second State in Nigeria where CCD has an office, assured the commitment of CCD to supporting RoLAC II Program in achieving its mandate in Abia State just as it did in Lagos and Edo States as well as Abuja FCT.
In a related development, a leading civil rights group dedicated to upholding the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and promoting police accountability and a rights-respecting policing atmosphere in Nigeria and whose mission is to foster a just and equitable society, ensuring transparent and responsible governance for the betterment of all citizens, the Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) has said that RoLAC programme aligns with its mission to advocate for human rights and support initiatives that enhance access to justice and expedite trials.
In a release signed by Mr. Okoye Chuka Peter, CEHRAWS Executive Director, CEHRAWS stated that it acknowledges the commendable objectives of the said Programme, which include improving the criminal justice system’s performance, enhancing access to justice for vulnerable groups, and increasing transparency and accountability in anti-corruption measures, adding that these goals resonate deeply with CEHRAWS core values and advocacy efforts.
The Centre which extended its gratitude to International IDEA and the European Union for recognizing Abia State’s potential and investing in its future, stated that it is committed to playing a participatory role in this transformative project; and also is ready to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure the success of the RoLAC Programme and to support initiatives that promote justice, protect vulnerable groups, and strengthen governance.
The release partly read, ‘CEHRAWS profoundly appreciates the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA) for choosing Abia State to participate in the second phase of the European Union-funded Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme. This significant milestone underscores Abia State’s commitment to fostering good governance, transparency, and justice under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti. We also take this opportunity to officially welcome International IDEA and its partners to our beloved Abia State, God’s Own State.
“The RoLAC Programme, which aims to consolidate rule of law and anti-corruption reforms, has selected Abia as a focal state, a testament to the remarkable progress and reforms initiated by Governor Otti’s administration. CEHRAWS applauds the Governor for his visionary leadership and the transformative steps taken to enhance governance and promote justice in Abia State.
“Governor Otti’s administration has made significant strides in addressing issues such as gender-based violence, the rights of people with disabilities, and the welfare of women and children. These efforts are pivotal to achieving the holistic development of Abia State and are integral to the objectives of the RoLAC Programme”.
CEHRAWS assured both the Abia State Government and the RoLAC Programme partners of its willingness to render support and actively participate, adding , “Together, we can build a more just, transparent, and accountable society that upholds the highest standards of good governance”.
RoLAC is a program funded by the European Union and formerly implemented by the British Council in Nigeria. The program aims to enhance the delivery of justice and security services, promote anti-corruption efforts, and improve public safety in Nigeria.