Nigerian Government Urged To Tackle Human Rights Violations Against Tuberculosis Survivors

Nigerian Government Urged To Tackle Human Rights Violations Against Tuberculosis Survivors....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In anticipation of World Tuberculosis Day, an advocate has urged the federal government to take action to safeguard the rights of survivors, aiming to prevent stigmatization and the loss of livelihoods post-treatment.

Elijah Justice, a TB survivor and advocate, voiced his concerns during a press briefing organized by Stop TB Partnership Nigeria in Abuja ahead of the 2024 World TB Day. Justice shared his personal experience of facing stigmatization and subsequent dismissal from a commercial bank after completing treatment for tuberculosis. He expressed dismay over the ongoing stigma faced by survivors despite being declared free of the infectious disease.

Reflecting on his ordeal, Justice stated, “I lost my job upon returning from TB treatment because my workplace feared I could transmit the disease, but TB is curable.”

Highlighting the importance of seeking immediate medical attention, Justice emphasized, “TB is not a death sentence; treatment is readily available. However, individuals should seek medical assistance promptly without jeopardizing the health of their families.”

Addressing concerns about potential human rights violations and stigma post-tuberculosis treatment, Dr. Queen Ogbuji-Ladipo, acting Board Chair of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, acknowledged the disease’s significant public health implications, which often result in the loss of livelihoods.

Dr. Ogbuji-Ladipo assured that measures have been implemented to combat human rights abuses against survivors. She encouraged the public to utilize resources such as the Lawyers Alert platform and the 3340 toll-free number to report incidents of discrimination or rights violations.

“By calling the toll-free number, reported issues will be promptly addressed by relevant organizations. Additionally, Lawyers Alert is available to provide support and services to individuals facing discrimination or abuse,” she emphasized.

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