By Emeka Nwokoha
The Conference for the Actualization of Human Rights, (CAHR), on Sunday, 8, 2020, celebrated one of its vibrant activists, Comrade Austin Ozobo, on his recent appointment as Senior Special Adviser to Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, on political Affairs.
The event took place at Freedom House, Okoribi, Effurun, Delta State.
Speaking at the event, the National Director General of CAHR, Barr. Omemiroro Ogedegbe, congratulated Comr. Ozobo on his appointment. He charged him to distinguish himself as a dignified member of CAHR, noting that his new office would throw up challenges he would need wisdom to tackle. Continuing, the DG tasked him on transparency, commitment and good sense of judgement, even as he urged him to ensure the contents of the advise he would be dishing out to the governor Okowa reflect the harsh economic situation of the state.
Barr. Ogedegbe, implored him to use his office to interface with the government of the day and influence policies of the government, so as to bringing succour to the underprivileged.
He raised concern about government’s insensitivity to the plight of the vulnerable populace, and charged Comr. Ozobo to ensure that the fundamental rights of Deltans are fully protected. Saying, “I implore you to be a worthy ambassador of CAHR in your new office.
In the same vein, Comr. Atiku Sunday, a vibrant activist and upcoming 2023 governorship aspirant, advised Comr. Ozobo not be distracted in the course of his duties. His words, “strike a balance between an activist and your new political appointment. Be a good ambassador of CAHR. Don’t be carried away by the spoil of office, knowing that you are a studded and rugged activist of unbendable passion for defense of the less privileged and vulnerable Deltans.”
Similarly, the National Adviser of CAHR, Pastor Edewor Egedegbe, congratulated Comr. Ozobo, even as he described his appointment as a case of putting a square peg in a square hole. He said, “I am not bothered about your going into the murky waters of politics because you have a strong character and an unwavering focus on your targets. We wish you the best of luck. Always remember CAHR as your constituency.”
Continuing, pastor Egedegbe said, “As you perform your duties creditably, in a short time, the government will know the stuff CAHR is made of because your impact would be felt greatly. We are seconding you to the government to go deliver your worth.”
The President of Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, Youth Wing Worldwide, Comr. Kelly Umukoro, described Comr. Ozobo as a team player and dogged human rights activist. He said, “your appointment is a forward moving development for CAHR.” Continuing, he urged Comr. Ozobo to bring his wealth of experience, ruggedness and vibrancy to bear on his new appointment.
Comr. Prince Godstime, expressed confidence that Comr. Ozobo would able to prove himself in his new appointment. His words, “I have no doubt, you will do well. I congratulate you and the entire CAHR for this historic appointment. I implore you to always engage Governor Ifeanyi Okowa with potent political advise that is in sync with the fundamentals of human rights. It should reflect the current challenges in the state.
The State Director of CAHR, Comr. Monday Enudi congratulated Comr. Ozobo, even as he described him as a fearless and dependable activist whose track record in righting the wrongs in the society has remained unbeatable. He said, “we will work closely with you to ensure the fundamental rights of Deltans and Nigerians are protected.”
Responding to the plethora of accolades from members of CAHR, Comr. Austin Ozobo, who was visibly excited, described the event as a surprise package, describing the honours being bestowed upon him as awesome. He said, “I am surprised at this flood of honours you have bestowed upon me. It is an awesome display of love to me.” He continued, “the pieces of advice you have given me are quite germane. I promise to make you proud and will contribute my quota to the development of CAHR.
Continuing, He sought quality contributions and advise from members of CAHR to strengthen his capacity in dealing with the challenges his new office would throw at him. Obviously aware of inherent challenges in his new office, Comr. Ozobo called on members of CAHR to stand firm behind him, saying, “endeavour to call me to order when l am making mistakes in my actions and activities.”
He spoke about his pet project “Delta State Youth Leadership and Training Program” starting very soon in Warri, and offered CAHR the privilege of providing 3 youths to participate in the upcoming programme.
The State Secretary of CAHR, Comr. Isreal Arigbe, was the coordinator of the event.
