FG warns Security Agencies against torturing suspects in their custody – Crime Channels
FG warns Police, Military, other Security Agencies against torturing suspects in custody
On Wednesday, the Federal Government issued a stern warning to security agencies, urging them to refrain from subjecting detainees to abuse while in custody.
The warning came through the Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba, who confirmed that the government is in the process of reviewing the Anti-Torture Act and its associated regulations.
In her remarks at a sensitization workshop for law enforcement officers, government agencies, and relevant stakeholders in Abuja, Jedy-Agba emphasised that any law enforcement officer caught using torture to coerce confessions will face strict consequences.
The workshop focused on the United Nations Convention Against Torture (UNCAT), and Jedy-Agba revealed that the government is examining ways to expand the legal definition of torture to better address contemporary issues.
The Federal Government’s message is clear, there will be zero tolerance for any form of torture in detention, and the legal framework is being strengthened to ensure that those responsible for such abuses are held accountable.
She said: “Let me quickly point out that the definition of torture under the relevant legal frameworks pertains to acts committed by public officials, particularly Law Enforcement, which inflicts pain or suffering, whether mental or physical on an individuals in their custody
“Furthermore, both the Government and stakeholders have the inherent responsibility to support measures aimed at unequivocally rooting out torture in Nigeria, in line with UNCAT and OPCAT.
“I, therefore, invite all participants to demonstrate commitment and dedication towards eliminating torture by collaborating and cooperating to speak with one voice against the perpetrators of torture, and for all who suffer at their hands, at your various institutions.
“We are currently reviewing the Anti Torture Act and Regulations to expand the definition of torture and improve mechanisms to discourage and eradicate torture in places of detention such as deprivation of liberty in Nigeria, such as police stations, prisons and other detention facilities, psychiatric hospitals, and any other places where persons are not permitted to leave at their own will.
“However, in our experience, it is not enough to punish perpetrators for committing acts of torture.
“The Government also has the responsibility to ensure restitution and rehabilitation of victims of torture.
“I, therefore admonish and encourage participants at this sensitization session to work as champions of Federal Government’s policy against torture, shun the use of torture against citizens and institute anti-torture measures when you return to your various institutions and organizations.”
The SGF, whose speech was read at the event by a Chief State Counsel at the Federal Ministry of Justice, Dr. Omozojie Okoboh, said the workshop was designed to highlight the responsibilities conferred on the Federal Government, particularly its law enforcement agencies and other public officials, towards the prevention of torture in Nigeria.
