By Segun Adegboyega
The Commissioner for Information and Communications in Kogi State, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, has reaffirmed Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s dedication to providing unwavering support to the Public Defenders and Citizens Rights Commission (PDCRC) in carrying out their duties.
During a meeting with a group of legal practitioners from the PDCRC who visited the Ministry, Hon. Fanwo emphasized the state government’s commitment to prioritizing the needs of the PDCRC for the benefit of the general public.
He stressed the importance of focusing on assisting the vulnerable and less fortunate members of society.
Hon. Fanwo highlighted the fact that access to justice has historically been costly, leading many individuals to lose faith in the legal system and resort to violence.
He emphasized that the establishment of the PDCRC aims to bridge the gap between the wealthy and the underprivileged in terms of legal representation.
He further expressed that a society’s strength lies in how it protects its children, women, and vulnerable populations.
Hon. Fanwo underscored the significance of justice in promoting peace and security, noting that until everyone has access to justice, true peace and security cannot be achieved.
“The high costs associated with legal proceedings, including lawyer fees and court expenses, have deterred many from seeking justice through legal means.” he added.
He noted that this has resulted in increased violence and self-justice and urged the PDCRC to play a crucial role in ensuring equal access to justice for all members of society, regardless of their financial status.
Hon Fanwo instructed the Director General of the Kogi State Broadcasting Corporation to organize a program titled “Public Defender Half Hour.”
“This program will be broadcast in Lokoja and the booster stations at Okeneba, Egbe, and Ochaja. The aim is to enlighten the citizens of the state, emphasizing the importance of grassroots orientation and sensitization”, he disclosed.
During his address, the Acting Director General of the Agency, Barrister Musa Idris Omogo, emphasized the significance of the advocacy visit and the partnership with the Ministry.
“The goal is to raise awareness among citizens about the functions of the Office of the PDCRC, which was established on June 3, 2019. Despite its existence for several years, many people are still unaware of its functions.”
The Acting DG explained that the office provides assistance to indigent, vulnerable, and oppressed residents of the state, regardless of their tribe or religion.
He also conducted an extensive session to educate the Ministry staff on the various functions of the office.
Barrister Emmanuel Ibenu, the Head of Criminal Litigation and State Coordinator of Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law in Kogi State, further enlightened the Ministry staff on criminal litigation and VAPP Law.
In a welcoming address, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Teddy Adegbola, assured the PDCRC of the Ministry’s full support.
