A human rights lawyer, Austin Otah has slammed the Federal Government for shirking its responsibility of protecting lives and property of Nigerians.
Otah was reacting to provision in NYSC Document asking corpers to make arrangement for ransom payment, if they should decide to travel to some parts of the country
The NYSC had among the documents given to new corps members, a document where it was stated: ‘When travelling in high risk roads such as Abuja-kaduna-Lokoja-Okene or Aba -Port Harcourt roads, then alert your family members, friends,and colleagues in order to have someone on hand to pay off the ransom that could be demanded”.
Reacting to this provision, Otah said “ is this not clear evidence that our STATE HAS FAILED?,adding whoever published this or authorised the publication needs to be sacked immediately!
He wondered,” How can anyone suggest this madness to a Corper, and expect their parents to ALLOW them to go anywhere outside their local environment.”
The human rights lawyer noted that the publication is a breach of a section of the constitution, pointing out that “the CFRN 1999 Chapter II, Section 14(2)(b) states that the government’s primary purpose is the security and welfare of the people.’
Otah however stated “Chapter II provisions are generally not legally enforceable, while Chapter IV lists fundamental rights that are enforceable:
Section 33(1) guarantees the Right to life.
Section 34(1) ensures the Right to dignity of human persons.
Section 35(1) establishes the Right to personal liberty.
Section 41(1) provides the Right to freedom of movement for citizens within Nigeria.
He pointed out “Other relevant sections to include Section 11, which empowers the National Assembly to legislate for public safety, and Sections 214 and 215, which establish the Nigeria Police Force for maintaining law and order.”
Otah wondered “when was this actually published and I want to know what year this came out. I wish i did…I would indict that Government’ adding also ‘if you look at the NYSC Act, the NYSC Act mandates specific provisions for the welfare and security of corps members, which implicitly guarantees a level of safety during their service year.”
He therefore stated vehemently that NYSC Act ‘places clear responsibilities on both the State Governing Boards and corps employers to ensure a safe and conducive environment.’
Sections of the NYSC Act that Address Safety and Welfare
“ The NYSC Act includes several sections that address the safety and welfare of corps members:
Section 6(2)(a) tasks the State Governing Board with arranging and providing essential facilities for the welfare of corps members, including accommodation, boarding, and transportation.
Section 8(3)(a) and (d) outlines the responsibilities of the Local Government Committee, which include providing for the welfare needs and ensuring the security of corps members in their area.
Section 9(6) requires employers to provide welfare facilities and a safe working environment comparable to those for regular staff, including medical services.”
He pointed out that “The NYSC Bye-Laws provide corps members with legal protection similar to public officers and include rules to enhance safety, such as restrictions on night travel and guidance on personal security.’
Otah concluded” This framework creates a legal obligation for the NYSC, state and local governments, and employers to prioritize the welfare and security of corps members.”
