Abuja, June 26, 2026 – The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has highlighted what it describes as significant progress in Nigeria’s efforts to combat torture, citing strengthened legal protections and institutional reforms aimed at safeguarding the rights of persons in custody.
The Executive Secretary of the commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu (SAN), made the remarks in a statement issued on Friday to mark the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, observed annually on June 26.
According to Ojukwu, key legislative and policy measures have enhanced the country’s capacity to prevent torture and other forms of inhumane treatment. He identified the Anti-Torture Act and the 2024 presidential designation of the NHRC as the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) against torture and abuse as major milestones in that regard.
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting the dignity and rights of individuals deprived of their liberty, while ensuring access to justice and effective remedies for victims of torture.
The NHRC boss commended survivors of torture for their resilience and determination in pursuing justice despite the physical, emotional and psychological impact of their experiences.
Describing torture as one of the gravest violations of human rights, Ojukwu stressed that the practice remains prohibited under international human rights conventions, Nigeria’s Constitution and the Anti-Torture Act of 2017.
He maintained that no circumstance, including security concerns, emergency situations, crime-fighting operations or counter-terrorism efforts, should be used as justification for torture or any form of cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.
Ojukwu explained that, in line with its mandate as the National Preventive Mechanism, the commission regularly conducts both scheduled and unannounced inspections of detention facilities across the country.
Despite the progress recorded, he expressed concern over continued reports of excessive force, arbitrary arrests, unlawful detention, prolonged pre-trial incarceration, poor detention conditions and denial of access to legal representation.
He also noted allegations of torture and other forms of ill-treatment in some custodial facilities, warning that such practices undermine public confidence in institutions, weaken the rule of law and breach Nigeria’s human rights commitments.
The executive secretary urged law enforcement agencies, security organisations, correctional institutions and other custodial authorities to strictly adhere to constitutional provisions and internationally accepted human rights standards in handling detainees.
He further called for thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of torture, prosecution of offenders and the provision of adequate remedies for victims, including rehabilitation, compensation, restitution and measures to prevent future occurrences.
Ojukwu also appealed to government institutions, civil society groups and other stakeholders to strengthen collaboration aimed at eliminating torture and promoting respect for human dignity.
He emphasised that ending torture is both a legal responsibility and an ethical duty, adding that every individual deserves protection from abuse and access to justice whenever their rights are violated.
The NHRC reiterated its resolve to continue advocating for accountability, human dignity and the protection of fundamental freedoms as part of efforts to build a more just and rights-respecting society.