Human rights group Concerned Nigerians for Human Rights has appointed activist Adebayo Raphael as convener following former leader Adeyanju Deji’s resignation.
Adeyanju Deji resigned to prioritize his legal career and personal endeavors after seven years leading the organization.
According to spokesperson Agada Abuh Theophilus, trustees received formal notification of Adeyanju’s decision during their quarterly review meeting.
For nearly a decade, Adeyanju has played a pivotal role in the organization.
He spearheaded various civil rights movements and advocacy campaigns that strive to advance social justice and democratic accountability in Nigeria.
Now, Adebayo Raphael will take on the role of convener, bringing with him extensive experience in human rights advocacy.
He is well-known for his unwavering commitment to social justice.
Additionally, Adebayo has been instrumental in promoting critical causes like electoral reforms, digital freedom, gender equality, and the battle against corruption.
“Adebayo Raphael’s appointment highlights his determination to create a Nigeria that benefits all its citizens, regardless of their backgrounds,” emphasized Theophilus.
“His leadership is expected to further strengthen the organisation’s mission of upholding human rights and democratic values.”
A Proven Track Record in Activism
Before his new role, Adebayo served as the National Secretary of the OurMuMuDonDo Movement from 2015 to 2019. During this tenure, he led initiatives addressing critical issues such as corruption, gender discrimination, electoral malpractices, and modern slavery. His activism gained national recognition in 2017 when he co-organised the first nationwide peaceful protests against police brutality under the EndSARS-ReformPoliceNG Movement. This activism laid the groundwork for his leadership role in the 2020 #EndSARS protests in Abuja, a historic movement demanding accountability and reform within Nigeria’s police force.
In addition to his efforts on police reform, Adebayo has been a vocal advocate for digital freedom. He played a key role in halting the passage of two controversial legislative bills aimed at restricting free speech under the pretext of combating fake news and hate speech.
A Vision for Change
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Reacting to his appointment, Adebayo expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the organisation and reaffirmed his commitment to fighting systemic injustices in Nigeria.
“I consider this an opportunity to engage more directly and fiercely with the current structure of the Nigerian state, which privileges the few and the worst of us over the majority and the best of us,” Adebayo said. “With the support of this group, I am committed to defending and educating ordinary Nigerians, empowering them to move beyond being victims of our nation’s challenges to becoming champions of a more just and ideal society.”
He also extended his best wishes to his predecessor, Adeyanju Deji. “I wish my good friend and brother all the best in his new pursuits. His contributions to this organisation have been invaluable, and I look forward to building on the solid foundation he has laid.”
Gratitude to Outgoing Convener
The Concerned Nigerians group expressed profound appreciation for Barrister Adeyanju’s years of service and leadership.
“We wholeheartedly thank our former convener, Adeyanju Deji, for his tireless efforts in leading this organisation through numerous civil rights movements over nearly a decade,” said Theophilus. “His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the group’s impact on human rights advocacy in Nigeria. We wish him success as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.”
Looking Ahead
Adebayo Raphael’s appointment launches a new era for Concerned Nigerians, while advancing their core mission.
The group actively safeguards human rights, enforces legal standards, and strengthens democracy nationwide through strategic initiatives.
With Adebayo’s proven track record and vision for a fairer society, the organisation aims to drive even greater positive change.
About Concerned Nigerians for Human Rights and Rule of Law
The Concerned Nigerians organization actively advocates for human rights, rule of law, and democratic governance through legal reforms and public campaigns.
Since its founding, the group has spearheaded multiple civil rights initiatives while expanding its equality-focused programs to neighboring African nations.
