Obiaruku, Delta State – September 2025
Grassroots Engagement and Public Service
The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Special Monitoring Mission (SMM) has once again demonstrated its commitment to grassroots service and institutional partnership through impactful initiatives in Obiaruku, Ukwuani Local Government Area, Delta State.
Under the coordination of Comrade Jacob Mandela, Unit Coordinator of IHRC SMM Obiaruku, the mission carried out community sanitation and pest control at the Obiaruku General Hospital, alongside traffic management services at the busy Amai Junction. These activities formed part of the Commission’s nationwide programme to strengthen public health, civic responsibility, and safety.
Community members praised the IHRC team for fostering a cleaner and safer environment. Hospital staff welcomed the pest control measures as a vital boost to hygiene, while road users recognised the improved orderliness at Amai Junction.
Courtesy Visit to Ukwuani LGA Leadership
Following the outreach, the IHRC delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government, Hon. (Barr.) C.S. Possible Ajede, formally commending his administration’s developmental achievements and collaborative spirit.
Highlighted projects included:
- Construction of Obodo Agu, Ifukor, and Echeruche roads in Obiaruku
- Establishment of the Okpala-Uku Palace, Obiaruku
- The Amai Ultra Modern Market
- The Community Library and Computer Centre
- Peaceful resolution of a land dispute between the King of Umuebu and the Obiaruku community
During the meeting, IHRC proposed to deepen cooperation with the LGA through a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The proposed framework will cover human rights advocacy, peacebuilding, civic education, governance support, and humanitarian services.
Strategic Leadership and Collaboration
These initiatives reflect the vision of IHRC’s national leadership, guided by Comrade Elijah Vitus Echendu, National Coordinator of IHRC SMM Nigeria, and the diplomatic direction of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria.
Together, their leadership has positioned IHRC SMM as both a voice for human rights and the rule of law, and a practical partner in grassroots development and institutional collaboration.
Chairman’s Response
In response, Barr. Possible Ajede commended IHRC for selecting Obiaruku as part of its nationwide service initiative. He described the sanitation and traffic control exercises as timely interventions that promoted cleanliness, order, and civic responsibility.
“The International Human Rights Commission has set a model of service that aligns with our administration’s vision. We welcome the proposed MoU and look forward to closer cooperation in peacebuilding, education, and human rights advocacy,”
— Hon. (Barr.) C.S. Possible Ajede, Chairman, Ukwuani LGA
The Chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnerships that strengthen governance and human rights compliance, and welcomed continued cooperation with IHRC in improving the lives of citizens.
Participation and Outlook
Other SMM officials who participated in the community service and courtesy visit included Comr. Theophilus Chinonso Nwadei, Comr. Goodness Omamuyovwi Oghara, Comr. Chizonum Paul Opia, Comr. Jonah Onomvezino, Comr. Henry U. Ugbe, Comr. Charity Elendu, Comr. Happiness Azizi, Comr. Efe Basil Okwuoliseh, Comr. Daniel Happy Ogakpori, Comr. Azuka N. Enyabegwu, and Comr. Chukwuemeka Igwenyi.
As IHRC continues its outreach across Nigeria, the Obiaruku initiative stands as a model of how humanitarian service, civic order, and institutional partnership can converge to strengthen communities.
Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria
A delight to serve humanity and leave lasting impact
good work 🥰🤗
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