NHRC advocates protection of rights for the Elderly

By Gbenga Ogundare

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC),  Wednesday advocated for appropriate legal frameworks for the protection of the rights of the elderly.

Executive Secretary of the Commission, Professor Ben Angwe, who advocated this at the sensitization programme on the rights of the elderly in the Federal Capital Territory and the 20th anniversary of the commission, said the elderly who represents the most vulnerable in the society requires special attention.

Angwe noted that neglect, abandonment, isolation and social exclusion is a violation of the rights of the elderly, stressing that the essence of existence is valued when people enjoy the four basic freedoms of expression, worship, freedom from want and fear.

He further said; “This celebration therefore focusses on the respect for these basic Freedoms and the creation of awareness on them.”

Angwe said that the NHRC is committed to creating a platform for these awareness as it is determined to educate most Nigerians before the end of 2015.

While pointing out that the government must provide for the elderly as it is their entitlement, he explained that it is the desire of all Nigerians to live their rights.

In his remarks, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Abuja Municipal Area Council, Hon Zephaniah Jisalo said it is the duty of all to ensure that the elderly have access to food and shelter.

Jisalo said that the National Assembly will partner with the NHRC to achieve the goal of protecting the rights of the elderly and creating awareness for Nigerians on the need to know their rights.