A coalition of human rights organisations in Ebonyi State has urged the government to take urgent action to address what it described as deepening failures within the state’s justice and governance systems.
The call was led by the Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Centre, Abakaliki, during activities marking the 2025 International Human Rights Day.
Speaking at a press conference in Abakaliki on Tuesday, the Centre’s director, George Etameso, said this year’s global theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” mirrors the daily struggles faced by many residents in the state.
Etameso lamented what he called persistent systemic failures that hinder citizens’ access to justice, basic services and dignified living conditions.
He criticised the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) for alleged “illegal, exploitative and coercive practices,” claiming that residents continue to suffer from arbitrary billing, unlawful disconnections and extortion by field agents.
The Centre called on EEDC to reform its billing system and urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to impose stricter penalties for violations.
Etameso also advocated for state-owned renewable energy generation, noting that Ebonyi’s hydro, solar and wind resources could support independent power production.
He urged the State House of Assembly to explore legislation enabling such initiatives, arguing that reliable and affordable power “is not a luxury but a fundamental right.”
The group raised concerns about rising rent exploitation, including unregulated charges, sudden rent hikes and illegal evictions.
According to Etameso, these practices are driving vulnerable families into homelessness.
He called for rental reforms to allow monthly payments, regulate agency activities and introduce fast-track mechanisms for resolving tenancy disputes.
Congestion in Correctional Facilities
Citing figures from the Abakaliki Correctional Centre, Etameso disclosed that the facility currently holds 1,051 inmates, out of which 892 are awaiting trial while only 159 have been convicted.
He described the situation as “inhumane and unacceptable,” pushing for faster judicial processes, expanded non-custodial sentencing and full activation of the state’s Justice Reform Team.
While acknowledging improvements in some areas, the director said unethical practices within the police force continue to impede justice.
He noted that despite the official policy, “bail is not free,” and alleged that complainants are often compelled to pay for case files and investigations—practices that allow wealthy individuals to manipulate the system to their advantage.
Etameso called for improved human rights training for security operatives, proper enforcement of Chief Magistrates’ routine visits to detention facilities and the adoption of technology—such as virtual hearings and stenography—to speed up court processes.
He urged the Ebonyi State Government and relevant institutions to act swiftly to curb the identified abuses and strengthen protection for citizens’ fundamental rights.
