IHRC demands immediate government intervention on detained minors
The International Human Rights Commission – IHRC in Nigeria has expressed concern over a circulating video showing 124 protesters, including minors with visible signs of malnutrition and exhaustion, arraigned in court on Friday, 1 November 2024, for allegedly protesting against bad governance that affects their livelihood, a fundamental right protected by Nigeria’s democratic constitution
This was obtained in a press statement issued on Saturday, 2 November, in Abuja by the Commission’s Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah.
According to the Ambassador-at-Large, the disheartening incident serves as a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to protect human rights, appealing to the Federal Government for a drastic intervention.
He underscored the human rights concerns surrounding Nigerian minors in Kuje Prison and other correctional facilities, emphasizing that Nigerians must prioritize this issue, recognizing our shared obligation to protect human dignity within the global community.
Furthermore, Dr. Duru emphasized that the Organization strongly disapproves of juvenile delinquency in all its forms, including, vandalism, theft, violence, and gang involvement. Nevertheless, it recognizes that individuals in correctional facilities retain their inherent dignity as human beings.
While I commend the presiding judge’s intervention in halting the trial, I urge the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Law Enforcement Agencies, to thoroughly investigate and prevent such injustices, fostering a society where dignity and justice thrive.
In conclusion, I implore the Nigerian Government to reiterate its commitment to child rights, as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), Nigerian Child Rights Act (2003), and the National Youth Policy (2019), through the Nigerian Child Rights Committee and Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRWA), to fulfill its responsibilities.
Reported
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head, Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria
The right of humanity which is the right to life is precious and priceless. It should be handled with care and dignity, because money cannot bring the dead back to life. IHRC is playing a very vital role. Kudos
As a Human Rights Advocate, I stand in firm solidarity with the International Human Rights Commission’s call for immediate government intervention on the unlawful detention of minors. Look the children the were arrested during the protest in Nigeria during the hunger protest,
Great humanitarian actions are tangible in our time because of institutions like the IHRC and it is a great boost to our morale and stimulant to everyman that we must be our bothers keepers, kudos.
As a Human Rights Advocate, I stand in firm solidarity with the International Human Rights Commission’s call for immediate government intervention on the unlawful detention of minors. Detaining children in such conditions not only violates their basic human rights but also undermines the rule of law and our commitment to justice. Every child deserves the right to protection, education, and rehabilitation – not confinement. I urge the government to act swiftly to release these minors and to implement policies that prioritize the well-being and rights of our youth.
— Comr. Yakubu Garba, Human Rights Advocate
IHRC you’re doing the right job may God bless your work
no comments
good effort of you in the world