The National Human Rights Commission on Monday, commenced investigation into an alleged violation of the right of lady by the convoy of Governor Umaru Al-Makura of Nasarawa State.
Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Prof. Bem Angwe, led a team from the Commission to the Government House, Lafia, to meet with Al-Makura and members of his convoy, to investigate the alleged assault on a lady along Lafia-Akwanga highway, a forthright ago.
Angwe said the team was at the Government House following a petition by one Miss Lois Iorvihi, over alleged violation of her rights by the convoy of the governor.
He noted that although the allegation had generated a lot of publicity, especially in the social media, the commission would not be influenced by the sentiment and emotions expressed in the various publications.
He said the commission would be fair and just to all the parties involved in the incident.
Angwe added, “We owe it a duty to be fair and just by ensuring the protection of the rights of all Nigerians, including that of the vulnerable and those in position of authority.
“The commission will not allow persons, who occupy public offices, endowed with state powers, to misuse such to the detriment of the vulnerable public.
“Similarly, the commission will not permit allegations aimed at exposing public officeholders to ridicule and hatred”.
He pledged that the commission would be firm and thoroughly investigate the allegation to ensure that the truth was revealed to Nigerians at the end of the day.
Al-Makura told the team that his decision to submit himself for the investigation and waiving his immunity as a governor was borne out of respect for human rights.
“Subjecting myself to be investigated by the Commission over the allegation is also to set a precedence and make a statement that in spite of one’s immunity as a political officeholder, there are certain things that one should hold in respect for humanity”, the governor added.
