Human rights are the inalienable rights every citizen of a democratic society is entitled to enjoy. These rights are enshrined in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and the constitutions of democratic nations across the world.
In Nigeria, these rights are guaranteed under Chapter Four of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Unfortunately, however, fundamental rights in the country are too often violated by individuals, institutions and even groups that ought to protect them.
One of the most frequently abused provisions of the Constitution is Section 38, which guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. In a true democracy, no individual or institution should arrogate to itself the power to impose personal moral standards on others in ways that infringe upon constitutionally guaranteed freedoms.
Respect for the rights of others is essential for peaceful coexistence and national development. Nigeria cannot genuinely aspire to democratic progress while many citizens continue to disregard the liberties of their fellow citizens.
Democracy and human rights are inseparable. Democracy flourishes where liberty is protected, while authoritarianism thrives where rights are suppressed. The contrast between democratic and authoritarian societies is evident across the world. Nations that uphold freedom and personal liberty tend to experience greater prosperity, creativity and social stability than societies where citizens are subjected to excessive control and repression.
It is therefore disturbing to witness the growing trend in Nigeria where some individuals and institutions seek to impose dress codes on adults in public spaces under the guise of morality or religion. Such actions often amount to an unnecessary intrusion into personal freedom.
Particularly troubling is the tendency by some religious groups to publicly condemn or harass young people over their mode of dressing. Nigeria is a plural society where citizens should be free to conduct their lives, practise their religion and pursue legitimate activities without intimidation.
Ironically, many of those advocating rigid dress regulations claim to be acting on religious grounds, despite the fact that the Christian faith itself preaches tolerance, humility and restraint in judging others. The Bible clearly admonishes believers against self-righteousness and unnecessary condemnation of fellow human beings.
Rather than policing the appearance of others, religious organizations should concentrate on moral instruction, peaceful coexistence and the spiritual upliftment of society. The true essence of religion lies in persuasion through teaching and good example, not coercion or public humiliation.
Equally concerning is the conduct of some higher institutions in Nigeria. Universities are meant to be centres of intellectual freedom, innovation and democratic culture. Sadly, many tertiary institutions now compete in introducing restrictive dress codes and rigid regulations that stifle individuality and creativity among students.
Educational institutions should encourage critical thinking and personal development, not enforce unnecessary controls that contribute little to academic excellence or national progress. Policies that excessively regulate students’ appearance often do more harm than good.
The activities of overzealous security personnel and gatekeepers in some public and private establishments are also worrisome. There have been numerous cases where citizens, particularly women, are denied entry into offices or business premises because their dressing is considered “indecent” by subjective standards.
Such acts not only humiliate the victims but can also deprive them of economic opportunities and dignity. In more advanced democracies, victims of such discriminatory treatment would likely seek legal redress for violation of their rights.
As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, citizens and institutions alike must learn to respect personal liberty and uphold constitutional values. A society built on tolerance, mutual respect and the rule of law stands a better chance of achieving peace, unity and sustainable development.
The protection of human rights is not merely a constitutional obligation; it is the foundation upon which every genuine democracy rests.
By Comrade Akido Agenro writes from 45 Ike-Oluwa Street, Iju-Ishaga, Lagos Nigeria. Phone: 09066999967
