The Resource Center for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has raised concerns about the high rate of maternal mortality in Kano State, labeling it as the ‘worst’ place to give birth, based on statistics that position Nigeria as one of the countries with the highest maternal mortality rates, with Kano being the most populous state.
Mr. Omoniyi Adewale, the Senior Program Officer of CHRICED, spoke on behalf of Executive Director Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi during a visit by the Association of Kano Online Journalists (ASKOJ) to the organization’s office on Tuesday.
He called for media intervention to ensure that Kano State’s Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law, enacted during the last administration, is not politicized.
According to him, the law, which was enacted on May 10, 2023, under the administration of Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, has faced delays in implementation due to political changes under the current Governor Yusuf Abba Kabir.
Omoniyi highlighted that CHRICED advocated for the law’s creation, making Kano the first state in Nigeria to establish such legislation. However, despite its significance, the law remains largely inactive.
“The response to the Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law has been disheartening,” Omoniyi remarked. “What was once celebrated as a significant achievement now lies dormant due to political reasons. The current administration seems reluctant to adopt policies from its predecessor, regardless of their merits.”
Omoniyi criticized the political maneuvering that has overshadowed the law’s potential benefits. “It’s frustrating that, despite the law’s importance, there has been a troubling silence around its implementation. The law was heralded as a milestone, yet it is now merely gathering dust.”
He emphasized the media’s role and urged ASKOJ to use their platform to pressure the government into acting on the law. He stressed that while the current administration has expressed concern for child and maternal health, these efforts should align with the established law to ensure continuity and effectiveness.
“There is a law in place that guarantees sustainability,” Omoniyi said. “We need your help to remind the government of the Kano State Free Maternal and Child Healthcare Law, 2023. Your role as the fourth estate is crucial in setting the agenda and ensuring that the government prioritizes this essential issue.”
In response, Concrete Salisu Yakubu, Chairman of ASKOJ, acknowledged CHRICED’s work in human rights and civic advocacy. He stated that ASKOJ members are committed to highlighting CHRICED’s initiatives and improving their own capacity in reporting sensitive human rights issues to avoid potential litigation.
Yakubu also expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “Working with CHRICED, we believe we can effectively raise awareness and drive change regarding the implementation of this critical law.”
The meeting highlighted the need for sustained advocacy and media engagement to overcome political obstacles and realize the law’s intended benefits for maternal and child health in Kano State.
