Retired Justice Abdu Aboki of the Supreme Court of Nigeria has praised the author, Mathew Osita Okeke, for his two significant legal books, “Fundamental Human Rights Enforcement in Nigeria: Law, Practice and Procedure” and “Nigeria: Journey from Fiscal to Feeding Bottle Federalism: The Way Forward”.
Speaking at the public presentation of the books, Aboki said the first book on human rights is timely, given Nigeria’s current security challenges and allegations of human rights violations. He noted that human rights issues are of great interest to all, as they are interconnected with peace, progress, and democracy.
Aboki, who chaired the Federal Government’s Investigative Panel on human rights violations in the North East, lamented the challenges in pursuing justice and human rights in Nigeria, citing cases of unjust imprisonment and extrajudicial killings. He commended the author for examining the legal frameworks and practical realities of enforcing human rights in Nigeria and offering solutions.
The retired Justice also praised the second book, the 2nd edition of Okeke’s work on federalism, saying it is a valuable contribution to the ongoing constitutional amendments. He congratulated the author for his efforts in producing the books and thanked the reviewers, including Professors of law and Senior Advocates of Nigeria, for their input.
At an interview, the author, Okeke emphasized the importance of promoting and protecting human rights in Nigeria, stressing that the issue is germane to the country’s development, even as he lamented the rising cases of human rights abuses in the country, saying it is unacceptable for Nigerians to become desensitized to such violations.
He emphasized that democracy should guarantee human rights and that those in government who fail to respect human rights are misleading the people. “Democracy is not just about elections, it’s about ensuring the rights of citizens are protected,” he said.
Similarly, John Paul Nwenyi, CEO of De-John Paul Great Investments Nigeria Limited, hailed the books, as essential reads for every Nigerian.
Describing the books as “game-changers” that can reshape Nigeria’s narrative and leadership landscape, he commended Okeke, a judiciary official, for his courage and wisdom in addressing pressing national issues, saying Nigeria needs more leaders with such vision and expertise.
Also at the event, High Chief Otis Anyaeji, former National President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), lauded the books, saying they are timely and relevant to the country’s current challenges.
Anyaeji therefore emphasized the importance of human rights awareness, citing the current security situation in the country and the need for citizens to know their rights.
He noted that the books will be useful for citizens, students, teachers, and leaders, providing insight into the provisions of the Constitution and the obligations of government.