The Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Centre (HRCRC), Abakaliki, has called on the Ebonyi State Government and critical institutions to urgently address a growing list of human rights abuses affecting residents across the state.
Speaking at a press conference to mark the 2025 International Human Rights Day, HRCRC Director, George Etameso, said this year’s global theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” mirrors the daily challenges faced by many Ebonyians as they struggle to access justice, basic services, and dignified living conditions.
Etameso expressed worry over the deplorable state of Rev. Fr. Kevin O’Hara Close, the access route to the Centre, noting that the failed road has become a barrier for victims of abuse and vulnerable people seeking help. He lamented that despite several assurances, the road remains unattended to, exposing residents to danger and discouraging them from pursuing justice.
The HRCRC director also criticised what he described as “illegal, exploitative and coercive practices” by the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). He accused the company of subjecting consumers to arbitrary billing, unlawful disconnections, and extortion, and urged the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to impose stringent sanctions on violators.
Etameso further advocated for state-led power generation, leveraging Ebonyi’s hydro, solar, and wind resources. He encouraged the State House of Assembly to consider laws that would enable independent and affordable power generation, stressing that reliable electricity is a fundamental right capable of reducing exploitation and boosting employment.
On housing, HRCRC condemned the rising cases of rent-related exploitation by landlords and agents. Etameso said arbitrary fees, sudden rent increases, and unplanned evictions were driving low-income families into hardship. He called for new laws to support monthly rent payment options, regulate agency activities, and fast-track tenancy dispute resolutions.
The Centre also raised alarm over abandoned quarry sites scattered across the state, describing them as hazardous pits causing accidents, erosion, and the destruction of farmlands and water sources. Etameso demanded stricter environmental enforcement and the creation of community compensation funds for affected areas.
Citing data from the Abakaliki Correctional Centre, HRCRC revealed that 1,051 inmates are currently held in the facility, with 892 awaiting trial and only 159 convicted. Etameso described the congestion as unacceptable and urged faster judicial processes, expanded use of non-custodial sentencing, and full activation of the state’s Justice Reform Team.
While acknowledging efforts by security agencies, he noted that limited funding and some unethical practices within the police structure continue to hinder access to justice.
The Centre also highlighted gender-based violence, education barriers in rural communities, and recurring land disputes as pressing concerns requiring immediate government attention.
