Gombe State Deputy Governor Manassah Jatau has called for closer collaboration between the state government and the National Human Rights Commission.

He made the appeal during a courtesy visit by the commission’s state coordinator and his team.

Jatau described the NHRC as an important institution whose work helps maintain peace and prevent conflicts. He expressed worry over rising cases of gender-based violence, the alleged mistreatment of widows by their late husbands’ families, and the failure of some men to care for their families.

The deputy governor noted that most of the family-related complaints he receives come from women. He also linked some social problems, including drug abuse, to unresolved grievances and rights violations that leave people feeling frustrated.

He said the state government has adopted an inclusive approach to security, involving different groups in the community. Jatau suggested that the NHRC should be included in the state’s public health emergency task force and urged the commission to increase public awareness so residents know where to seek help.

NHRC State Coordinator Dr Joseph Kwanshe said the visit was to build closer ties with the government. He praised the state’s efforts on peace and development, and expressed readiness to share data that could help prevent conflicts while requesting a place in State Security Council meetings.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper