Abuja: Nigeria has significantly strengthened its legal framework against torture through the Anti-Torture Act, says the Executive Secretary (ES) of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN. Ojukwu made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja, honoring victims and survivors of torture as the world observed the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the day is observed annually on June 26. Ojukwu highlighted other legal frameworks against torture, including the 2024 Presidential Act which designates the National Human Rights Commission as the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) to combat torture and abuse. He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to preventing torture, protecting the dignity of all persons deprived of liberty, and ensuring justice and effective remedies for victims of torture in Nigeria.
Ojukwu praised the courage and determination of victims and survivors who seek justice despite enduring physical, emotional, and psychological trauma. He emphasized that torture is a severe violation of human rights and is strictly prohibited under international human rights law, the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Anti-Torture Act 2017. Ojukwu stated that no circumstance, including national security concerns or crime prevention efforts, can justify the use of torture.
The commission exercises its NPM mandate by conducting regular and unannounced visits to detention facilities. While acknowledging progress, Ojukwu expressed concern over reports of excessive use of force, arbitrary arrests, and detention, noting that such practices undermine the rule of law and public trust in institutions, violating Nigeria’s human rights obligations.
The executive secretary called on law enforcement agencies and custodial bodies to uphold constitutional safeguards and international human rights standards. He stressed the importance of prompt and impartial investigation of torture allegations, accountability for perpetrators, and providing victims with effective remedies, including rehabilitation and compensation.
Ojukwu urged stakeholders to renew their commitment to ending torture and building a society based on human dignity and justice. He emphasized that eradicating torture is both a legal obligation and a moral imperative, calling for collective action to ensure no person is subjected to torture and no violation of human dignity goes unanswered.