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ACTIVISTS, BE TRUE TO YOURSELVES By Comrade Tunde Oladunjo

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ACTIVISTS, BE TRUE TO YOURSELVES By Comrade Tunde Oladunjoye

Remarks delivered at the 2024 Human Rights Celebrations organized by the Coalition of Civil Societies and Pro-Democracy Activists, Abeokuta, December 9, 2024.

 

 

 

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Chairman, executives, and members of the Ogun State Civil Society Coalition on this year’s commemoration of International Human Rights Day. I am deeply honored by your invitation to attend this important event as a “guest of honor.”

Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a crucial role in shaping society. Their active engagement in areas such as governance, environmental protection, climate change, labor rights, law enforcement, and women’s empowerment is essential for societal progress. A vibrant and functional civil society sector benefits everyone.

However, this occasion provides an opportunity for introspection. I urge CSO activists to remain true to their calling by embodying within their organizations the very ideals they seek for society at large. The change we demand from government and society must begin within our own ranks.

The Integrity of Activism

Human rights activism is neither a profession nor a license for blackmail or spreading unsubstantiated allegations cloaked in self-righteousness. Activists must be models of accountability, transparency, and democracy in their own organizations.

Do we, as CSOs, practice the democracy we demand of others? Are we accountable to our members? Do we produce annual and audited financial reports? These are fundamental questions we must ask ourselves. The probity we demand from public officials must equally apply within our organizations.

Our relationship with government representatives also warrants examination. Are they deemed “good” when accessible for material benefits and “bad” when access is denied? Why do some activists organize protests in defense of politically exposed individuals, even those who flout court orders?

Moreover, how do we relate to comrades in government? Are they partners to be engaged constructively, or objects of envy because they have moved on financially? Have we been honest in managing the occasional support we receive from unexpected sources?

Activism as a Calling, Not a Vocation

While unemployment is a pressing issue in Nigeria, activism should not become a substitute for vocation. Activism did not prevent Bekololari Ransome-Kuti, Gani Fawehinmi, Baba Omojola, Femi Falana, Ayo Obe, and others from pursuing their respective professions. Their activism was driven by principle, not survival.

Back in the days of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), we published annual and audited reports, held free and fair elections, and maintained transparency. Can the same be said of CSOs today?

This is not a blanket condemnation but a call to action. Genuine and committed activists still exist and should serve as role models to those who approach activism as a career rather than a cause.

A Call to Self-Reflection

A strong and effective civil society sector benefits all. We must distinguish between genuine activists and those motivated by self-interest. As activists, we must first address the logs in our own eyes before pointing out the specks in the eyes of others, including politicians.

By remaining true to our mission, we can reduce inequality and advance human rights in our society.

Thank you once again for the opportunity to share these thoughts.

Comrade Tunde Oladunjoye

  • Former Chairman, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Lagos State Branch
  • Founding Coordinator, CDHR, Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) Unit
  • Former National Publicity Secretary, CDHR

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Ogun 1 Customs Command, NASRE Forge Stronger Ties for National Development and Border Security

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December 19, 2024

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Ogun 1 Customs Command, NASRE Forge Stronger Ties for National Development and Border Security

The Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recently hosted the Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE) at its headquarters, marking a significant step towards strengthening partnerships aimed at enhancing border security, trade facilitation, and public awareness.

During the meeting, NASRE extended its congratulations to Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu on his recent appointment as the Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Command. The association commended his leadership capabilities and expressed confidence in his ability to elevate the command’s operational standards.

In his welcome address, the Public Relations Officer of the command, Mr. Hammed Bujoye Oloyede, reaffirmed Comptroller Shuaibu’s dedication to the command’s core objectives, which include revenue generation, securing Nigeria’s borders, and streamlining trade operations.

“Comptroller Shuaibu’s leadership is driven by innovation, collaboration, and active stakeholder engagement, especially with border communities. These principles are critical to achieving long-term growth and security in our operations,” Mr. Oloyede remarked.

He further stressed the importance of forming alliances with professional organizations like NASRE to ensure accurate information dissemination and to foster public trust in the Customs Service’s activities.

NASRE’s Public Relations Officer, Adeyemi Obadimu, responded by expressing the association’s enthusiasm for collaborating with the Ogun 1 Command on media advocacy and public enlightenment initiatives. He emphasized NASRE’s commitment to promoting ethical journalism and transparency, values that align with the Customs Service’s mission.

“This partnership will enhance public understanding of trade policies, border security, and economic growth while strengthening the relationship between the Customs Service and the public,” Mr. Obadimu stated.

The NASRE team underscored the vital role of the media in educating the public about the challenges and successes of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in its fight against smuggling and efforts to maintain national security.

This collaboration is expected to foster a more informed public and a stronger synergy between stakeholders in promoting national development.

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Man Who Lost Memory 17 Years Ago Reunites with Family Through Divine Encounter in Lagos”

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December 19, 2024

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Man Who Lost Memory 17 Years Ago Reunites with Family Through Divine Encounter in Lagos"

Man Who Lost Memory 17 Years Ago Reunites with Family Through Divine Encounter in Lagos”

A miraculous event unfolded on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, near the Task Force Office on Alasia Bolade Street, Oshodi, Lagos, opposite the Arena Military Market. Sunday Ugochukwu, a man from Ebonyi State who suffered memory loss 17 years ago, was miraculously healed and identified, leading to his reunion with his long-lost family.

Man Who Lost Memory 17 Years Ago Reunites with Family Through Divine Encounter in Lagos"

Apostle Ayoola Oladele, a Lagos-based prophet and founder of Let Us Worship Ministries Healing and Salvation, was reportedly led by the Holy Spirit to pray for a man thought to be mentally ill. Acting on divine instruction, Apostle Oladele approached the man and laid hands on him. This act of faith led to the restoration of Sunday Ugochukwu’s memory.

Upon regaining his memory, Ugochukwu revealed his identity, which was later confirmed by his family in Ebonyi State. The family, who had presumed him dead after his sudden disappearance 17 years ago, expressed immense gratitude to God and Apostle Oladele for the divine intervention.

A former military officer turned prophet, Apostle Ayoola Oladele is known for his powerful healing ministry. He shared that his spiritual strength comes from prayer, fasting, and solitary retreats on mountain tops, emulating the practices of Jesus Christ.

The Ugochukwu family hailed the incident as a testament to God’s miraculous power. They celebrated the prophet for being an instrument of God’s work, describing the event as nothing short of extraordinary.

This remarkable story stands as a testament to faith, divine power, and the boundless grace of God.

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Ibadan Christmas Stampede: CDHR Condemns Tragic Death of Over 30 Children, Calls for Justice”

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December 19, 2024

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INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2024: CDHR DEMANDS IMMEDIATE ACTION AGAINST INJUSTICES

Ibadan Christmas Stampede: CDHR Condemns Tragic Death of Over 30 Children, Calls for Justice”

Over 30 children tragically lost their lives during a Christmas funfair held on Wednesday, December 18, at Islamic High School, Basorun, Ibadan, Oyo State. The incident occurred due to a stampede caused by overcrowding and poor event management, leaving families devastated during what was meant to be a joyful occasion.

The event, organized by Queen Naomi Silekunola Ogunwusi, the former wife of the Ooni of Ife, in collaboration with Agidigbo FM, owned by philanthropist and radio presenter Oriyomi Hamzat, aimed to distribute gifts and scholarships to children. However, the chaotic arrangements turned the celebration into a nightmare.

Governor Seyi Makinde confirmed the tragedy, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of young lives. “This is a very sad day for us in Oyo State,” the governor said, as he sympathized with grieving families. He ordered the suspension of the event and deployed security personnel and medical teams to restore order and assist the injured.

In response, the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) condemned the mass deaths, attributing the disaster to the organizers’ failure to implement proper planning and safety measures for an event meant to host over 5,000 children. CDHR also expressed heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the Ibadan community.

The organization urged the Oyo State Government and security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, publish their findings, and hold those responsible accountable for any negligence that led to the tragedy.

E-signed:
Comrade Debo Adeniran, National President, CDHR Nigeria
Comrade Idris Afees Olayinka, National Publicity Secretary, CDHR Nigeria

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