Human Rights Day: Use of modern technology, AI will enhance justice delivery — Stakeholders

A coalition of human rights group in Ebonyi has advocated the use of modern technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), including Text-to-Speech (TTS) tools and online court hearings, to enhance the justice delivery system.

Supreme news reports that the coalition includes the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Centre (HRCRC), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), among others.

The group made their position known during a press conference commemorating the 2025 International Human Rights Day in Abakaliki on Wednesday.

The year’s celebration was themed “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials.”

Mr. Christopher Okorie, Coordinator of the NHRC in Ebonyi, said the event was significant in efforts to protect and promote the everyday rights of citizens.

Okorie noted that the coalition remained committed to building a nation where the rights of all are safeguarded.

He explained that the adoption of modern technology and AI tools would significantly speed up court processes, documentation, and recordings.

According to him, every voice matters, and no one should be left behind in the promotion of human rights.

“Our celebration today is a reminder that human rights flourish where communities embrace harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence,” he added.

Okorie also called for the establishment of shelters for victims of human rights abuses in Ebonyi and across other states of the federation.

He lamented the absence of such facilities in the state, noting that shelters would support and protect victims while their cases are being investigated.

Also speaking, Mr. George Etamesor, Executive Director of HRCRC in the state, expressed concern about the high number of awaiting-trial inmates in Nigerian Correctional Centres and called for urgent decongestion of the facilities.

“Sadly, most of the inmates awaiting trial are held for minor offences, enduring inhumane conditions including inadequate food, poor healthcare, among others.

“This not only violates the right to dignity and fair trial but also fuels cycles of poverty and re-offending.

“On this day dedicated to everyday essentials, we emphasise that justice delayed is justice denied.

“We propose accelerated judicial processes, expanded use of non-custodial sentences such as community service, and greater investment in rehabilitation programmes.

“The judiciary can greatly enhance justice delivery through the use of modern technology and AI,” he stated.