Protection That Delivered Results

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) was engaged from the very beginning in the case of Luiza Galaeva and her children, whose lives and safety were under serious threat. Through determined legal, logistical, and security actions, IHRC not only ensured their protection but also contributed to a court ruling that confirmed the validity of all steps taken by the organisation.

A Verdict That Safeguards Life and Dignity

A Polish court found Andy Musaev – Luiza’s former husband – guilty of making criminal threats against her and Natasha Deshieva. These threats involved the intent to take Luiza’s life and to force her to return to Chechnya.
For these crimes, the court imposed a custodial sentence and a long-term ban on contacting or approaching Luiza Galaeva and Natasha Deshieva, effectively ensuring their safety and peace of mind.

Proof of IHRC’s Effective Work

This verdict is direct evidence that IHRC’s actions – legal support, monitoring, and international advocacy – bring tangible results. This is not only a symbolic defence of human rights but also concrete protection of life, health, and personal freedom.

Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik, IHRC Secretary-General, Peacemaker, emphasised:

“This verdict proves that solidarity and determination can save lives and restore a sense of justice. IHRC demonstrates that our actions have the power to protect and to change the world for the better.”

A Joint Success of Many Good People

The success of this case is the result of the commitment of the entire IHRC team – commissioners, lawyers, volunteers, and institutional partners who acted across borders. Special thanks go to the officers of the Nadwiślański Border Guard Unit, whose professionalism and close cooperation with IHRC played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of Luiza and her children. This is a clear example of how an international organisation and state institutions can work hand in hand to effectively combat violence and protect human rights.

Media Coverage

The story of Luiza Galaeva and the involvement of IHRC in her rescue was also reported by other sources:

• Facebook – community post
• Gazeta Wyborcza – “Either Sold or Buried. The Escape of Chechen Woman Luiza”

Author:
Dawid Szablowski
Editor-in-Chief & Publisher, IHRC News
Head of IHRC Press Department

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As part of efforts to promote a culture of national dialogue and strengthen the principles of justice and accountability, Mr. Yahya Al-Amouri, the Commissioner of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) in Syria, organized a cultural symposium titled “Transitional Justice: The Philosophy of Change Between Accountability and Reconciliation”. The event took place in the city of Salamiyah, Hama Governorate, and was attended by human rights activists, civil society representatives, local dignitaries, and youth engaged in Syria’s democratic transformation and societal reconciliation.

The symposium delved into the concept of transitional justice as a key tool for rebuilding post-conflict societies. The discussion focused on essential elements of transitional justice, such as truth-seeking, reparations, and institutional reform. These mechanisms were discussed in the context of Syria’s unique situation, while also drawing from the experiences of other countries that have undergone similar processes.

In his speech, Mr. Al-Amouri emphasized that transitional justice is not merely about holding perpetrators accountable but also about building trust among Syrians. He stressed the need to find a delicate balance between justice and reconciliation to ensure a shared future based on human dignity and the rule of law.

The symposium also provided an opportunity to discuss key mechanisms such as truth-seeking, reparations, and institutional reform – critical pillars of transitional justice – highlighting the importance of learning from other countries’ experiences, while not neglecting Syria’s unique context.

The event was positively received by participants, who emphasized the importance of involving all segments of Syrian society in such dialogue to achieve fair and inclusive solutions.

Reporter: Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Press Journalist
IHRC – Syria

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Office of the Head of Diplomatic Mission

Press Statement
Date: 23rd July 2025
Reference No: IHRC/NIG/PR/0725/003

IHRC Commends DSS DG on Detainees’ Release and Compensation, Urges Sustained Human Rights Reforms Across Security Agencies

IHRC Welcomes Decisive Action by DSS

The International Human Rights Commission – IHRC Corporation Nigeria, led by the Head of Diplomatic Mission, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, extends its commendation to the Department of State Services (DSS) under the direction of Director General Mr. Tosin Ajayi for the release of twelve detainees, including an individual held since 2022.

“This release, accompanied by financial compensation and a formal apology, marks a significant step toward the domestication of international human rights norms and the restoration of dignity for affected individuals.”

Such gestures underscore DSS’s evolving commitment to human rights, in line with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international standards.

A Symbol of Accountability and Institutional Reform

IHRC recognises this action as a powerful symbol of accountability and institutional integrity. It echoes the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which strives to reposition Nigerian institutions to uphold fairness, justice, and civil liberties.

Ongoing Systemic Reforms Needed

While this move is praiseworthy, IHRC highlights the persistent need for systemic reform across all of Nigeria’s security architecture. Issues such as:

• Arbitrary detention
• Prolonged incarceration without trial
• Lack of access to legal representation

continue to pose significant challenges. IHRC calls upon all security agencies—including the Police, Military Intelligence, and Correctional Services—to adopt a unified code of conduct based on human dignity, rule of law, and the right to fair hearing.

Towards a Human Rights-Centred Security Sector

“We urge the DSS and all security institutions to implement internal audit mechanisms, prevent abuse of power, and establish transparent public complaint channels,” states the IHRC.

IHRC remains committed to collaborative efforts in human rights education, policy development, and community-based reconciliation. The organisation stands ready to support Nigerian security agencies in training, humanitarian response, and community policing.

Building a Just and Humane Nigeria

In line with IHRC’s global mission—to defend human rights, uphold international justice, and assist vulnerable populations—IHRC reiterates its willingness to partner with state agencies in advancing human rights compliance.

IHRC thanks DSS leadership for this progressive action, expressing hope that it will inspire similar reforms throughout all Nigerian security institutions.

“Let this not only be a moment of commendation, but a new beginning for justice, equity, and humanity in Nigeria.”

Signed:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

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Abuja, Nigeria – 28 May 2025 – The International Human Rights Commission Corporation (IHRC) in Nigeria expresses its deep concern regarding the recent closure of a major market in Anambra State by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The development has led to significant public anxiety and debate, heightening tensions among traders, local communities, and various stakeholders across the state.

According to the official NAFDAC report, between 9 February and 27 March 2025, the Agency conducted an extensive enforcement operation targeting major Open Drug Markets: Idumota (Lagos), Aba (Abia), and Onitsha (Anambra). These operations resulted in the seizure and destruction of large quantities of banned, expired, falsified, and substandard medicines and controlled substances, collectively valued at over one trillion Naira. Investigations indicated that warehouses, shops, and distribution outlets within these markets failed to adhere to the Good Storage and Distribution Practice (GSDP) standards and operated without registration by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), in contravention of established national regulations.

NAFDAC has clarified that, pursuant to federal regulations, investigative charges were imposed on non-compliant operators. Notably, the initial N5,000,000 charge for the sale of unregistered products was reduced to N200,000 after appeals, while the N2,000,000 charge for GSDP violations was reduced to N500,000. According to NAFDAC, “these penalties are officially gazetted charges and were applied fairly across the affected markets.”

IHRC’s Official Position and Recommendations

In an official press statement, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, IHRC Country Representative, has called for calm, dialogue, and restraint from all parties—including affected traders, community leaders, and regulatory authorities. The IHRC strongly urges all stakeholders to refrain from any actions that could escalate the situation or undermine public order.

While recognising NAFDAC’s statutory mandate to regulate pharmaceuticals and ensure public health and safety, the IHRC emphasizes that transparency, due process, and constructive dialogue are essential in the enforcement of regulatory actions—especially where livelihoods are impacted.

The IHRC reiterates that regulatory enforcement must be guided by the principles of fairness, transparency, and the protection of human dignity. To this end, the Commission recommends:

1. Initiating comprehensive dialogue with all stakeholders, including market unions, civil society organisations, and local authorities, to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.

2. Prioritising educational and corrective enforcement strategies over punitive market closures, thereby promoting voluntary compliance and sustainable public health outcomes.

3. Safeguarding the fundamental rights of traders, particularly the right to livelihood, in line with Nigeria’s constitutional and international human rights obligations.

Furthermore, the IHRC appeals to the Federal Government to intervene urgently and ensure a fair and peaceful resolution. The Commission also recommends the establishment of an independent review panel to assess the closure’s circumstances and recommend appropriate remedial actions consistent with human rights principles and the rule of law.

Commitment to Justice and Human Dignity

The IHRC remains steadfast in its commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of human rights for all Nigerians. The Commission stands ready to facilitate dialogue among all relevant parties to achieve a constructive, equitable, and lasting resolution.

IHRC calls upon both the Anambra State and Federal authorities to support this process, prevent further escalation of tensions, and ensure that justice and human dignity remain central to regulatory governance.

Signed:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications
IHRC Nigeria

This press statement is issued in line with IHRC’s mandate to uphold and promote international human rights standards, support peaceful conflict resolution, and foster constructive engagement between stakeholders and regulatory bodies.

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The Secretary General of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik has condemned in strong terms, the killing of Mr. Nygil Cullins, who was murdered on May 2022 by the Police in Buckhead Atlanta Georgia USA, commending the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in the quest for justice.

Thus, the International Human Rights Commission jointly supports and joins the appeal of the Global President and Founder of the African and Middle-East Economic Sustainability Alliance (AMEESA) USA, H.E. Nakiim Bey, and gives him the full support of the international voice through the IHRC.

Recall that in May 2022, the Police in Buckhead, Atlanta Georgia, United States murdered Nygil Cullins due to a scuffle with a security guard, when he stepped out of the storefront with his hands up and unarmed, yet the Police used him as a target range. This is another human rights violation of an African-American black male killed. We must stop this senseless killing.

We are with you.

Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik
Secretary General of the IHRC

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