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