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Odinkalu as new chairman,National Human Rights
Commission:square peg in a square hole
The Federal Government of Nigeria is applauded for
appointing a notable human rights lawyer and crusader as
Chairman of National Human Rights Commission.
BY OSA DIRECTOR
Newsdiaryonline Fri Dec9,2011
Odinkalu
The appointment of Dr Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, a seasoned lawyer
and human rights crusader as chairman of National Human Rights
Commission is commendable.His nomination has been confirmed by
Nigeria’s Senate. Odinkalu, a tireless and noiseless advocate of
human rights, democracy and the rule of law is not given to
public shenanigans and rabble- rousing that has come to be the
trademark of some self-styled human rights crusaders in Nigeria.
Not many perhaps have seen or heard of Odinkalu shouting on the
roof top, seeking desperate attention as a social crusader. But
those versed in the ways and methods of the human rights
community in Nigeria know that the feeble- looking Odinkalu is a
consistent, tireless and result- oriented advocate of the rights
of men and women. He is one man that has remained unflagging in
the desire to create an equitable and egalitarian society using
the instrumentality of the law. He may not shoot from the hip,
but he doesn’t miss his target.
Odinkalu who cut his teeth in the Civil Liberties Organization,
CLO is currently Africa Director Open Society Justice
Initiative. Not many are aware that Odinkalu in collaboration
with the like of Edetaen Ojo of Media Rights Agenda engineered
the advocacy for the Freedom of Information, FOI Act. He worked
tirelessly to see that bill passed. Very knowledgeable in the
politics of International Human Rights diplomacy, Odinkalu has
pioneered several legislations and resourceful talk shops on
broadening the frontiers of human rights and the dignity of the
human person in Nigeria.
Those who recommended
Odinkalu for this top job certainly wish Nigeria well.
Undoubtedly, Nigeria is set to witness a pragmatic and
universally acceptable standard of human rights advocacy and
pursuit with Odinkalu in the saddle as Chairman, National Human
Rights Commission. I
know he will not be found wanting in any way! congratulations.
Th
This is the document referred to in the Witness
Statement on Oath of Clifford O. Kokogho as
“Exhibit
COK.2”
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