Lack of awareness, slow justice administration, responsible for poor social justice system

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A Non-governmental Organization, Public Administration and Social Development Consult has identified lack of awareness and slow administration of justice as being responsible for the poor social justice system in Nigeria.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Consult, Mrs Margaret Ibeku disclosed this, while briefing journalists on the NGO’s forthcoming social justice conference and awards scheduled to hold on 27th October this year.

She said “There is the issue of awareness. Most Nigerians don’t even know organisations to go to for redress if there is an infringement on their rights or they are lacking in opportunities that ought to be available to them.

“Also, the slow justice system makes it to be that, offenders that have infringed on the rights of the common man, do not have consequences for their actions and that has given room for further infringement in the life of the common man and closure of equal opportunity.

“The world is undergoing rapid economic and social developments, which have resulted in more complex and sophisticated governance globally, one of the major challenges for governments, organizations, companies and institutions is to meet the increasing expectations for a better informed and educated society for an open and accountable public administration.

“This has resulted in an increased demand in the services of the social justice crusaders, and good governance advocates as agents of change, fairness, and accountability in the society”.

Mrs Ibeku however called for collective efforts in the enhancement of an equitable social justice system in the country.

Speaking on the anticipated conference, Mrs Ibeku said the event is aimed at promoting awareness on citizens rights, identifying vacuum and bridging the gap to promote Nigerian social justice system.

She said the NGO will partner with the Public Complaints Commission to organise this maiden conference and awards.

“This conference will bring together academia, technocrats, civil society, public servants, interest group, students, cultural interest and religious groups, researchers and private organizations to interact and x-ray topical issues that borders on Social Justice and Good Governance,” she explained.

She said awards will be presented to individuals, public and private organisations including institutions who win in whatever category they are nominated for.

Ibeku said “We are aware that some individuals, organizations, with or without support have been trying their best in the area of social justice, human rights, fairness and equity.

“These bodies will be recognised and it is going to be a very transparent process. We are calling on all Nigerians to be a part of recognising these individuals and celebrating them in the way to encourage them to do better.”

Some dignitaries are expected at the conference, including the former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission, Prof Chidi Odinkalu who would be presenting a keynote address. Stakeholders and politicians would be invited for discussion on the 2023 general elections.