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Eradication of Torture, Needs Collaboration of All Stakeholders, Says Beatrice Jedy-Agba
Eradication of Torture, Needs Collaboration of All Stakeholders, Says Beatrice Jedy-Agba
By: Michael Mike
A call has gone for collaboration of all stakeholders, including citizens and all Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to eradicate torture in the country.
Speaking at the 2025 Commemoration of the International Day Against Victims of Torture, organised by the Ministry of Justice in ccollaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), on Thursday in Abuja, the Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba while appreciating all stakeholders for efforts at eradicating torture in the country, said more collaborations is needed to put a stop to the scourge.
She said: “The eradication of torture in Nigeria requires sincere collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, particularly citizens and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), who play key roles in highlighting incidences of torture and advocating necessary measures to prevent and penalize such incidences.”
She added that: “As you may be aware, the Federal Ministry of Justice has over the years focused on prevention of torture through creating awareness and sensitization of law enforcement organisations, and initiating reform of our legal and regulatory frameworks on torture prevention and penalization.
“In this regard, the Ministry, through the Committee against Torture (CATN) has concluded work on the establishment of the Implementing Regulations for the Anti-Torture Act, 2017. The Regulations make provisions for specific matters that hitherto hindered the implementation of the Anti-Torture Act, such as procedures for the institution of criminal proceedings for offenders, right to medical examination, rehabilitation of victims of torture, among others.
“The Anti-Torture Regulations are currently in the process of being gazetted which will enable it come into force, in line with the requirements of the law.”
She stated that: “In addition, the Ministry, in line with the recommendations of the United Nations Committee Against Torture (CAT), has also begun reviewing the Anti-Torture Act, to address inherent gaps for effectiveness. Other preventive measures we have taken include conducting visits to places of detention and making recommendations to relevant authorities for improvement in the management of detainees, particularly in Nigeria’s correctional facilities. We have also established our National Preventive Mechanism under the National Human Rights Commission, in line with international obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture (OPCAT).
“However, we cannot accomplish our objectives without your support. We are open to strategic partnerships and collaboration with development partners and experts on improving efficacy of our reforms and driving initiatives that improve the torture situation in Nigeria.”
She noted that: “Torture is an abhorrent act and must be shunned by all. While we continue to record successes in the reforms and measures taken to prevent torture, these measures must necessarily translate to a reduction in the incidence of torture in Nigeria. Accordingly, the Ministry is poised to go beyond prevention, and to advocate institutional reforms to address and punish offenders, as a means of deterrence to the commission of this crime. We cannot continue to pay lip service to the commission of this crime, if we want to see change. It is for this reason that I wish to use this opportunity to encourage stakeholders, CSOs and development partners to support our efforts, to enable us achieve our desired objectives.”
She noted that: “The crime of torture is one that affects us all as a society, and requires collaborative efforts to not only disabuse public officials from its use, but to discourage the practice which appears to have become an abhorrent culture in our places of detention.”
She insisted that: “Every human deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. The use of torture is a criminal offence and prohibited in all circumstances. All stakeholders, both in the public and private sectors must speak with one voice against the perpetrators of torture, and for all who suffer at their hands, in order to build a better, more humane society for all people everywhere.”
On his part, theInspector General of Police (IGP), Olukayode Egbetokun said the police as an organisation dedicated to upholding human rights and the rule of law, recognises the profound physical and psychological trauma inflicted upon victims of torture.
Egbetokun, who was represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Legal, DCP Daniel Haliba, said: “We acknowledge the resilience and courage of survivors who, despite their suffering, continue to advocate for justice, accountability and healing.
“We reaffirm our commitment to preventing torture by advocating for policies and practices that uphold human dignity and prevent torture in all its forms.”
He added that: “We call upon government institutions and individuals to join us in this critical effort. Together, we can strengthen legal frameworks to prevent torture and ensure accountability, provide comprehensive psychological and legal assistance.”
“Let us work together to create a future where human rights are respected and all individuals can live with dignity.”
Executive Secretary. National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, in his remarks said the NHRC is willing to to work with the Ministry of Justice and other stakeholders to eradicate torture.
Ojukwu, speaking through his Special Adviser and Director Monitoring Department, Benedict Agu, said: “We are committed to working closely with the Ministry of Justice, the National Committee Against Torture, and all other relevant actors to ensure that Nigeria lives up to its constitutional and international human rights commitments always.”
Speaking earlier he said, “We commend the Federal Government of Nigeria for the progressive steps it has taken to align with its international obligations under the United Nations Convention Against Torture (UNCAT) through the enactment of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) (VAPP) Act 20215, the Anti-Torture Act 2017 and the establishment of the National Committee Against Torture, which brings together government agencies, civil society organizations, and academia, are important strides towards a coordinated and comprehensive approach to eliminating torture in our country.
He noted that: “There is also the establishment of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) “ stressing that: “However, it is worthy of note that the Fundamental law in Nigeria, the 1999 Constitution, under section 34 provides for the right to the dignity of the human person.”
He said: “Nonetheless, much work remains. Preventing torture is not only a legal obligation it is a moral imperative. It requires consistent political will, strengthened oversight mechanisms, proper training of security and Law Enforcement Agencies, and the empowerment of victims through legal, social, humanitarian and medical services.
“At the National Human Rights Commission, we remain committed to our mandate to promote, protect, and enforce the human rights of everyone, including all who have suffered grievous human rights violations/abuses with regards to torture.”
Kabiru Elayo of the National Preventive Mechanism (NPM), in his goodwill message acknowledged the importance of collaboration to succeed in eradicating torture.
He said: “We acknowledge that torture is not only a violation of fundamental human rights, but a direct attack on human dignity, the rule of law, and public trust in justice institutions.
“The NPM stands as a safeguard to ensure that no person, regardless of their statu iis subjected to abuse or neglect while in detention or under any form of custodial authority.”
Eradication of Torture, Needs Collaboration of All Stakeholders, Says Beatrice Jedy-Agba
News
Troops repel ISWAP attack on Gamboru Ngala
Troops repel ISWAP attack on Gamboru Ngala
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled an attempted infiltration by fighters of the Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) in Gamboru Ngala, a border town in northern Borno State.
Zagazola Makama learnt that the insurgents launched the attack on Saturday evening at about 6:15 p.m., attempting to infiltrate through the Flatari axis of Gamboru.
The sources said the troops swiftly responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to retreat after a brief exchange of gunfire.
“No adverse report was recorded during the encounter. The troops are currently on exploitation to track fleeing elements,” one of the sources said.
The situation in Gamboru Ngala has since returned to normal as residents commended the vigilance and prompt response of the military.
Gamboru Ngala, which shares a border with Cameroon, has been one of the strategic towns targeted by insurgents due to its proximity to transnational routes used for smuggling and movement of fighters.
The latest attack comes amid sustained military operations across the North-East aimed at dismantling remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists still operating in isolated enclaves.
Troops repel ISWAP attack on Gamboru Ngala
News
Gombe commissioner, orderly, driver die in auto crash after attending DDR consultation in Maiduguri
Gombe commissioner, orderly, driver die in auto crash after attending DDR consultation in Maiduguri
By: Zagazola Makama
The Gombe State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Col. Abdullahi Bello (rtd.), his orderly, Cpl. Adam Hussaini Gamawa, and his driver, have died in a fatal auto crash along the Malam Sidi–Gombe Road.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday, shortly after the trio departed Maiduguri, Borno State, where they had participated in the North-East Regional Consultation on the development of a national Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration (DDR) framework.
Col. Bello and his team were said to have left Maiduguri cheerfully after the closing ceremony of the three-day consultation, which brought together delegates from Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Bauchi, Gombe, and Taraba States.
According to sources , who was among the panelists at the consultation, Col. Bello actively participated in the session, contributing valuable insights on Gombe State’s role in hosting the Operation Safe Corridor facility.
“Col. Bello introduced himself as the third Commissioner since the ministry’s establishment in 2019. He spoke passionately about consolidating the foundation laid by his predecessors and reaffirmed his state’s commitment to the DDR process,” the sources recounted.
He described the late commissioner as a vibrant participant who engaged meaningfully during discussions and later shared perspectives on the unique security dynamics of different states.
“Our last conversation centered on the importance of integrating Disarmament and Demobilization into any dialogue with armed groups. I emphasized that without those key components, such dialogues amount to mere temporary ceasefires,” sources said.
Sources said the consultation ended successfully on Friday, with delegates departing for their respective states. He added that news of the accident broke later that evening, sending shockwaves through the participants and officials of the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) and Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
“Col. Bello and his orderly lost their lives instantly, while the driver, who was critically injured, passed away on Saturday morning. It was heartbreaking these were people we had just interacted with, full of life and dedication,” sources said.
He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and the people of Gombe State, describing the tragedy as “a painful reminder of the fleeting nature of life.”
“May their souls rest in peace. Indeed, life is transient, and we are all living on borrowed time as mortals,” he added.
Gombe commissioner, orderly, driver die in auto crash after attending DDR consultation in Maiduguri
News
Book Launch: Zulum Reaffirms Commitment to Invest in Education, Announces N50 Miliion Donation
Book Launch: Zulum Reaffirms Commitment to Invest in Education, Announces N50 Miliion Donation
By: Our Reporter
Borno State governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has reiterated his adminisration’s commitment to continue to invest hugely in the education sector and reposition the state for a more prosperous future.
The governor made the commitment at the graduation ceremony and official launch of the Book “Echoes of Memory” authored by the daughter of Borno State Deputy Governor, Aisha Umar Kadafur.
Aisha kadafur, a law graduate from Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti, is an advocate of peace and a campaigner on girl-child education.
The 25-page book is a collection of 25 different peoms from diverse themes such as girl-child, morality, technology, mental heath among others.p

Professor Zulum congratulated the celebrant for the accomplishment, describing education as the most effective weapon that can transform an individual and the society.
“Today, we gather not only to rejoice over an academic milestone but to honour a young lady whose passion for learning and writing has produced a meaningful contribution to literature and personal development,” Zulum said.
“Government of Borno State under my leadership together with my deputy and other members of council shall do everything possible to transform the education sector and reposition the state to greater heights. We will, insha Allah, deliver to the good people of Borno State both concrete and quantum values,” he assured.
“Education remains the most powerful weapon through which we can transform individuals and societies. When a young person, especially one from our state, distinguishes themselves through both academic excellence and intellectual creativity, it rekindles our hope for a brighter future. Aisha’s journey is a reflection of what is possible when vision meets commitment.
“The book “Echoes of Memory” is not just a title, it is a voice, a voice of reflection, courage and inspiration. It mirrors the thoughts and experiences of a young mind determined to leave a positive mark on the world. Through her words, Aisha reminds us that stories have the power to heal, to inspire and to shape our collective understanding of life.
“I feel a deep sense of pride seeing one of our own youths achieving such an outstanding feat. It gives me renewed confidence that our investments in education, empowerment and human development are not in vain. It is our young people, like Aisha, who will carry forward the torch of progress, peace and prosperity for our dear Borno State and Nigeria at large.
Governor Babagana Zulum during the Book presentation re-echoed the cordial working relationship between himself and the deputy governor “looking at the relationship between myself and the deputy, I said I must be around, I felt in my absence there will be a missing link, which is the father of the family. indeed I am the father of Aisha,”.ll

“I want to confess to the gathering that my stay with the deputy governor in the last six years needs not to be overemphasized. I cherishe him and I think people from other parts of the country would come and emulate from Borno State how governors should work with their deputies,” Zulum stated.
The governor launched copies of the book for N50 million “On behalf of the government and people of Borno State, I am donating the sum of N50 million for this book launch. May the Almighty Allah bless the celebrant for the good work that she has done,” he concluded.
Book Launch: Zulum Reaffirms Commitment to Invest in Education, Announces N50 Miliion Donation
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