TheCable

The Constitutional Rights Awareness and Liberty Initiative (CRALI), a civil society organisation, has developed a mobile application to inform Nigerians about their rights.

The mobile application called ‘Know Your Rights Nigeria’ was launched at the United States consulate office in Lagos on Tuesday.

Developed by Adeola Oyinlade, a lawyer, the app offers its content in Pidgin, Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba languages.

There is a segment where users can chat with about 50 lawyers on the app, asking questions on fundamental human rights. In addition, users can report cases of human right abuses using the app and it will be transmitted to the appropriate agency for swift response.

According to the developer, the application has simplified people’s right in a way that they can access them at any time where necessary with just a push of button in their palms.

In his address, John Fray, United States consul general, said the application has attracted more than 50,000 users since it was developed.

“As one of the most important countries on the continent, given its large population, thriving commercial enterprises, and strategic geopolitical location Nigeria is critical to Africa’s prosperity and stability,” he said.

“Furthering our strong bilateral relationship with Nigeria, and building on Nigeria’s historic, peaceful transfer of power, we continue to press for progress to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“We seek to advance these goals by developing relationships with the government, faith communities, and like you – civil society organisations

“As in the past, the purpose of the app is to simplify and raise awareness among all Nigerians of their human rights.

“I particularly appreciate that not only are people educated about their rights but they have access to free legal advice as well.”

Present at the event were Oby Ezekwesili, former vice president of the World Bank; Oyelowo Oyewo, former dean of law, University of Lagos; Dapo Olanipekun, a prominent lawyer and Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, founder of Rise Networks.

At the event, two officials of the Nigeria police force, Ken Nwosu, a superintendent of police from Sokoto state command and Adedeji Adewole, a superintendent of police from Ekiti state, were honoured with the personality of the year award for their “exceptional and professional” conduct in service.