Background of the Study
Human rights education is a critical component of promoting and protecting human rights in any society. In Nigeria, the Constitution guarantees fundamental human rights, including the right to education, freedom of speech, and the right to participate in governance (Ibrahim & Eze, 2023). However, the practical realization of these rights through human rights education has been an ongoing challenge. Human rights education involves imparting knowledge about the rights individuals are entitled to and encouraging respect for these rights. In Damaturu Local Government Area (LGA), Yobe State, where there is a history of socio-political instability, human rights education faces additional barriers (Abubakar & Musa, 2024). The implementation of constitutional provisions aimed at promoting human rights education has been inconsistent, particularly in regions affected by conflict or underdevelopment (Jibril & Danjuma, 2025). Despite Nigeria’s legal commitments under both domestic and international law to promote human rights education, many local government areas, including Damaturu, still face significant challenges such as lack of awareness, inadequate legal enforcement, and insufficient resources to properly educate citizens on their rights (Akinola & Bello, 2024). As such, this study seeks to examine the role of constitutional law in promoting human rights education in Damaturu LGA, focusing on how legal frameworks are implemented, the level of public awareness, and the impact of these efforts on the local population (Olaniyan, 2023). The importance of this study lies in its potential to uncover gaps in the application of constitutional provisions on human rights education and to suggest effective strategies for improving education in this area (Akpan & Okoro, 2023).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
While the Nigerian Constitution and other legal frameworks emphasize the promotion of human rights, there is a notable gap in the implementation of these laws, particularly in the context of human rights education in Damaturu LGA. The lack of comprehensive human rights education programs in the region has led to low levels of awareness about human rights among the local population, leaving many vulnerable to violations (Ibrahim & Eze, 2023). This study aims to appraise the extent to which constitutional law has contributed to promoting human rights education in Damaturu LGA and identify the challenges impeding its effective implementation.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To assess the role of constitutional law in promoting human rights education in Damaturu Local Government Area.
To examine the level of awareness of human rights among the residents of Damaturu LGA.
To identify the challenges faced in implementing constitutional provisions on human rights education in Damaturu LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
How effective has constitutional law been in promoting human rights education in Damaturu LGA?
What is the level of awareness of human rights among the residents of Damaturu LGA?
What challenges hinder the implementation of human rights education programs in Damaturu LGA?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
Constitutional law significantly contributes to the promotion of human rights education in Damaturu LGA.
The level of awareness of human rights among residents of Damaturu LGA is positively influenced by the availability of human rights education programs.
Insufficient funding and lack of political will are the major barriers to the successful implementation of human rights education in Damaturu LGA.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study will contribute to the understanding of how constitutional law can be used as a tool for promoting human rights education at the local government level. The findings will be useful for policymakers, educational authorities, and civil society organizations working to enhance human rights awareness and education. By identifying gaps in the current implementation of human rights education programs in Damaturu LGA, this study will offer recommendations that could lead to more effective policies and interventions, benefiting the wider population in Yobe State and Nigeria as a whole (Abubakar & Musa, 2024).
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on Damaturu Local Government Area in Yobe State, Nigeria, specifically analyzing the role of constitutional law in promoting human rights education in this region. It does not extend to other regions of Yobe State or Nigeria. The study may face limitations such as limited access to local government data, potential political sensitivities surrounding human rights issues, and the difficulty of measuring the impact of educational programs in real-time.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Human Rights Education: The process of teaching individuals about their rights and responsibilities, as outlined in national and international human rights instruments (Akinola & Bello, 2024).
Constitutional Law: The body of law that regulates the structure of government and protects individual rights, including the right to education (Ibrahim & Eze, 2023).
Damaturu Local Government Area: A political unit within Yobe State, Nigeria, which is the subject of this study (Akpan & Okoro, 2023).