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Eradication of Torture, Needs Collaboration of All Stakeholders, Says Beatrice Jedy-Agba

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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

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NDLEA Warns Nigerians Against Fake Vehicle Auction Scam Using Officials’ Names

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NDLEA Warns Nigerians Against Fake Vehicle Auction Scam Using Officials’ Names

By: Michael Mike

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has alerted Nigerians to a fraudulent scheme in which scammers are impersonating senior officials of the agency to deceive unsuspecting members of the public with fake offers of forfeited vehicles purportedly being sold at discounted auction prices.

In a disclaimer issued on Friday, the agency said the fraudsters have been circulating forged private letters and messages, particularly in the name of the NDLEA’s Secretary, Shadrach Haruna, claiming that seized vehicles are available for purchase through private arrangements.

The agency described the offers as entirely fraudulent, warning that they are designed solely to swindle victims out of their money.

According to the NDLEA, no official of the agency has the authority to privately allocate, sell or offer forfeited vehicles or any other seized assets to individuals under any circumstance.

It explained that assets forfeited as proceeds of drug-related offences are disposed of only through publicly advertised auctions conducted by government-appointed and registered auctioneers, in accordance with extant legal provisions and public procurement regulations.

The agency stressed that whenever such auctions are approved, they are widely publicised through national newspapers and the NDLEA’s official communication platforms to ensure transparency and equal access for interested members of the public.

The anti-narcotics agency therefore urged Nigerians to disregard any private letters, text messages, emails or social media posts claiming to offer forfeited vehicles for sale on behalf of Barrister Haruna or any other NDLEA official.

It also advised anyone approached with such offers to report the matter immediately to the nearest NDLEA command or through the agency’s official communication channels.

The statement, signed by NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to transparency, accountability and due process in the disposal of forfeited assets, while urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to the activities of fraudsters exploiting the agency’s name.

NDLEA Warns Nigerians Against Fake Vehicle Auction Scam Using Officials’ Names

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Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks, Rescue District Head, Recover Arms in Katsina, Zamfara

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Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks, Rescue District Head, Recover Arms in Katsina, Zamfara

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have repelled multiple terrorist attacks, rescued an abducted district head and recovered arms and other combat equipment during coordinated operations across Katsina and Zamfara states.

The military disclosed that the operations, conducted on July 2, demonstrated the sustained offensive against terrorist groups operating in the North-West.

In Katsina State, troops of Sector 2 on a fighting patrol engaged terrorists between Amara and Chakau Junction in Danmusa Local Government Area after the fleeing criminals opened fire on the advancing troops.

The troops responded with superior firepower, forcing the terrorists to flee and abandon their mission.

Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle, one magazine loaded with eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition and two motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists.

In another operation on the outskirts of Sabon Garin and Dantakeri villages in Dutsinma Local Government Area, troops, in collaboration with other security agencies and local vigilantes, responded to a terrorist attack and engaged the assailants in a firefight.

One terrorist was neutralised during the encounter, while the remaining attackers fled with varying degrees of gunshot wounds, according to military sources.

Also in Katsina, troops of Sector 2, working with other security agencies, responded to intelligence that terrorists had invaded Farin Hawa Village in Malumfashi Local Government Area and abducted the District Head, Mr. Mubarak Sharin.

The troops immediately pursued the fleeing terrorists, made contact with them and engaged them in a gun battle, killing one of the kidnappers and forcing the others to abandon the abducted traditional ruler.

The district head was rescued unhurt and reunited with his family.

Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, troops of Sector 2 successfully repelled a terrorist attack on their position at Dauran in Bukkuyum Local Government Area.

Military sources said reinforcement troops joined the battle, forcing the terrorists to retreat in disarray.

A subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, four magazines, 35 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, a bandolier and a hydration pack (CamelBak).

The military commended the courage, professionalism and resilience displayed by the troops as well as the support of other security agencies and local vigilantes during the operations.

It reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations against terrorist groups while working closely with local communities to improve security and protect lives and property across the North-West.

Troops Repel Multiple Terrorist Attacks, Rescue District Head, Recover Arms in Katsina, Zamfara

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MAJOR SETBACK FOR IBUSA AS COURT REFUSES EXECUTION ORDER, STRENGTHENS OGWASHI-UKU’S POSITION IN LAND BATTLE

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MAJOR SETBACK FOR IBUSA AS COURT REFUSES EXECUTION ORDER, STRENGTHENS OGWASHI-UKU’S POSITION IN LAND BATTLE

The Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, on behalf of the people of Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, has recorded what community leaders have described as a significant legal victory in the long-running land dispute involving the Esemese Community of Ibusa.

In a ruling delivered on 15 June 2026 in Suit No. A/M/62/2015, the Delta State High Court, presided over by Hon. Justice Flora Ngozi Azinge, declined the principal application by the Esemese Community of Ibusa seeking an order for the execution of the judgment arising from the earlier litigation between the parties.

The applicants, through their counsel, Barrister P. U. Lotobi, had sought, among other reliefs, an order permitting the execution of the judgment and the substitution of several deceased parties to the proceedings. While the Court granted the applications relating to the substitution of deceased parties in the Esemese community, it declined the principal relief seeking an order of execution.

The Court also approved the substitution of the late HRM Obi Professor Chukwuka Okonjo with the present Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, HRM Obi (Dr.) Ifechukwude Aninshi Okonjo II, who is represented in the proceedings by Chief Arthur Obi Okafor, SAN.

The ruling marks an important development in a dispute that has its origins in earlier litigation in Suit No. A/28/66.
According to the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom, concerns had previously arisen over the interpretation of the litigation survey plan associated with the Supreme Court judgment. The Kingdom maintained that attempts had been made to rely on a survey plan that differed from the original litigation survey relied upon by the Court.

Following applications by the Ogwashi-Uku community before the Supreme Court, the Kingdom states that the Court restored the original litigation survey plan forming part of the earlier proceedings. In the present proceedings, the High Court further directed that a registered surveyor interpret the litigation survey plan.

Leaders of the Ogwashi-Uku Kingdom have welcomed the ruling, describing it as an important safeguard against what they contend were attempts to extend the earlier judgment beyond the land actually litigated.

Speaking after the ruling, the Chief of Aboh Ogwashi-Uku, Chief Barrister Jude Obidi, described the decision as a landmark development and that the boundary between Ogwashi-Uku and Ibusa remains at the Oboshi River.
According to him, the ruling reinforces the principle that court judgments must be enforced strictly within the boundaries of the land actually determined by the courts and not beyond them.

He further noted that the broader boundary dispute between Ogwashi-Uku and Ibusa remains pending before the Delta State High Court in a separate action instituted by the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku to determine the precise boundary between the two neighbouring communities.

Chief Obidi commended the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku for what he described as his steadfast commitment to protecting the territorial interests of the Kingdom through lawful means and the judicial process.

The latest ruling is expected to have significant implications for future attempts to enforce the earlier judgment pending the final determination of the boundary dispute between both communities. With this ruling, the claims by Ibusa for the areas around Admiralty University have been thrown into serious doubt.

The Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku through the Chief of Staff to the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku, Prince Onyema Okonjo when contacted welcomed the rejection of the request by the Ibusa community by the Delta State High Court in Ogwashi-Uku but also maintained that the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku reserves the right to seek appellate review of any portion of the ruling it wasn’t happy with. He also cautioned members of the Ibusa community from resorting to self help in using thugs and attempting to enter Ogwashi-Uku land any further to make illegal claims outside any court approved enforcement.

MAJOR SETBACK FOR IBUSA AS COURT REFUSES EXECUTION ORDER, STRENGTHENS OGWASHI-UKU’S POSITION IN LAND BATTLE

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