The Federal Government has restated its dedication to eradicating torture and strengthening human rights protections within detention and law enforcement facilities, in line with both national legislation and international obligations.

Speaking at a sensitization workshop for law enforcement agencies in Abuja, the Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. B.E. Jedy-Agba, highlighted the urgent need for institutional reforms to eliminate torture and inhumane practices nationwide.

“This gathering is not merely a formality; it is a testament to our collective resolve to build a more just, humane, and rights-respecting society,” she declared, urging participants to use the session as a platform to deepen their knowledge of anti-torture principles and Nigeria’s commitments under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT).

She reminded attendees that torture is classified as a criminal offense under the Anti-Torture Act of 2017, which mandates government actors to prevent, investigate, and punish all instances of torture. She stressed that Nigeria is legally bound to comply with the United Nations Convention Against Torture (UNCAT) and its Optional Protocol.

Referencing the September 2024 visit by the UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT), Jedy-Agba noted that its preliminary report revealed poor detention conditions, lack of cooperation from authorities, and a hostile environment—all of which require urgent corrective measures.

She further underscored the importance of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM), operating under the National Human Rights Commission, which inspects detention centers, issues recommendations, and safeguards detainees’ rights.

Addressing participants directly, she said, “You are the vanguards of this change. Let us see this sensitization not as a burden, but as an opportunity to reinforce our commitment to excellence, uphold the rule of law, and foster a culture of respect for human rights.”

She assured that the Ministry of Justice would continue to back efforts to bring Nigeria’s justice system in line with both domestic law and international best practices.