From Joseph Amedu, Lokoja
Kogi State Public Defender and Citizens Rights Commision is to partner Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, on human rights protection and promotion of justice.
The Director-general of the commission, Barrister Abdullahi Zakari who disclosed this during an advocacy visit to the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Usman Salisu Ogbo in his office on Tuesday, said that the services would be provided free.
The Director-general told the Rector that under the planned collaboration, the commission has concluded arrangements for establishment of Human Rights Club at the Polytechnic as part of its efforts to create awareness on rights of citizens and respect for the rule of law.
Zakari said the essence of the joint partnership is geared towards ensuring the promotion of human rights education in the institution.
He described Kogi Poly as one of the fastest growing institution in the north central zone, Nigeria, where citizens rights education and respect for the rule of law should be encouraged.
The DG while briefing the Rector on the activities of the commission said “Since the commission came into existence in Kogi, it has embarked on aggressive protection of rights of citizens and has also been able to conclude 12 cases in favour of the less privileged who cannot afford to pay for the services of lawyers. We have 12 lawyers working with the commission and 10 Governorning Council members who regulates our activities. Our operation is for the good of humanity, insecurity and immediate environment”
Responding, the Rector of Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Dr. Usman Salisu Ogbo appreciated the offer of the commission to establish a Human Rights Club in the institution saying that the gesture would be judiciously utilised to the benefit of staff and students.
The Rector used the opportunity to roll out his numerous achievements within his one year in office ranging from academic, infrastructure and care for the welfare of staff and students.