Anthony Okechukwu Ojukwu, a distinguished Nigerian lawyer, has dedicated his career to the promotion and protection of human rights. As the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of Nigeria, Ojukwu plays a pivotal role in advocating for justice and equality in the country. His journey from a young boy inspired by the legal profession to a leading figure in human rights is both inspiring and impactful.
Born to the family of Donatus and Theresa Ojukwu in Umueleagwa Onicha, Ezinihittee LGA of Imo State, Anthony Okechukwu Ojukwu’s early life was shaped by the values of education and service. Despite the challenges posed by the Nigerian Civil War, Ojukwu excelled academically, completing his primary education at St. Dominic’s Primary School and his secondary education at Government College Umuahia with distinction.
Ojukwu pursued his passion for law at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, where he graduated with a second-class honors degree in 1985. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986, marking the beginning of a remarkable legal career. He furthered his education with a Master’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos in 1998 and attended international human rights training programs in Canada.
Ojukwu’s career is marked by significant contributions to the legal and human rights fields. He began his professional journey as a Research Assistant to the then Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Bola Ajibola, SAN. His dedication and expertise led to his appointment as the State Administrative Secretary/CEO of the National Electoral Commission (NEC) in Imo State.
In 2001, Ojukwu joined the NHRC as a Special Assistant to the former Executive Secretary, Dr. Bukhari Bello. His commitment to human rights advocacy saw him rise through the ranks, culminating in his appointment as the Executive Secretary of the NHRC by President Muhammadu Buhari in December 2021.
Under his leadership, the NHRC has undertaken numerous initiatives to address human rights violations and promote justice. Ojukwu’s efforts have been instrumental in enhancing the commission’s visibility and effectiveness in protecting the rights of Nigerians.
Ojukwu’s contributions to the legal profession and human rights have not gone unnoticed. In 2021, he was conferred with the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), recognizing his outstanding legal expertise and service. This honor is a testament to his dedication and impact in the field of law and human rights.
Despite his achievements, Ojukwu faces significant challenges in his role at the NHRC. Issues such as limited resources, political interference, and the complexity of human rights cases require strategic and resilient leadership. Ojukwu remains committed to overcoming these obstacles through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering dedication to justice.
Looking ahead, Ojukwu envisions a Nigeria where human rights are universally respected and protected. His goal is to strengthen the NHRC’s capacity to address human rights abuses and to foster a culture of accountability and respect for the rule of law.
Anthony Okechukwu Ojukwu’s journey from a young boy inspired by the legal profession to a leading human rights advocate is a story of dedication, resilience, and impact. As the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, he continues to champion the cause of human rights, striving to create a just and equitable society for all Nigerians.
