A coalition of human rights groups in Ebonyi has advocated the use of modern technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), including Text-to-Speech (TTS) tools and virtual court hearings, to strengthen the justice delivery system.
The coalition includes the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Centre (HRCRC), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and others.
The call was made during a press conference to commemorate the 2025 International Human Rights Day on Wednesday in Abakaliki.
This year’s observance was themed “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials.”
The Coordinator of the NHRC in Ebonyi, Mr Christopher Okorie, said the event underscored ongoing efforts to protect and promote the everyday rights of citizens.
Okorie noted that the coalition remained committed to building a society where the rights of all individuals are safeguarded.
He explained that adopting modern technology and AI tools would significantly expedite court processes, documentation, and record-keeping.
According to him, every voice matters and no one should be left behind in the promotion of human rights.
“Our celebration today is a reminder that human rights flourish where communities embrace harmony, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
Okorie further called for the establishment of shelters for victims of human rights abuses in Ebonyi and other states, lamenting the absence of such facilities. He said shelters would help protect and support victims while their cases are being investigated.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of HRCRC, Mr George Etamesor, expressed concern over the high number of awaiting-trial inmates in Nigerian correctional centres and called for urgent decongestion of the facilities.
“Sadly, most of the inmates awaiting trial are held for minor offenses and are subjected to inhumane conditions, including inadequate food and poor healthcare.
“This not only violates their right to dignity and fair trial but also fuels cycles of poverty and re-offending.
“On this day dedicated to everyday essentials, we emphasize that justice delayed is justice denied.
“We propose accelerated judicial processes, expanded use of non-custodial sentences such as community service, and greater investment in rehabilitation programmes.
“The judiciary can greatly enhance justice delivery through the use of modern technology and AI,” he said.
