Lateef Fagbemi: Tinubu administration is human rights friendly

Lateef Fagbemi, the attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, says the President Bola Tinubu administration is committed to upholding human rights.

Speaking on Tuesday at the commemoration of Human Rights Day, Fagbemi said this year’s theme, ‘Our rights, our future, right now,’ is a strong reminder that human rights are the cornerstone of a just, equitable, and peaceful society.

The event was organised in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC), funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).

He said the theme also emphasises the imperative of collective action to safeguard the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.

“As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we acknowledge the significant progress Nigeria has made in promoting and protecting human rights,” he said.

“Notwithstanding, we recognise that there are still challenges to be addressed, and we recommit ourselves to working tirelessly to ensure that the rights of all Nigerians and every person living in Nigeria are respected, protected, and fulfilled.

“In this regard, the federal government has taken concrete steps to strengthen the institutional framework for the promotion and protection of human rights.

“These include the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission, the passage of the Anti-Torture Act, the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, and the ratification of several international human rights treaties.

“I assure all Nigerians that the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a human rights-friendly and listening government.

“Amongst other commendable steps taken by this government in the interest of justice and human rights is the discontinuation of the prosecution of children and young persons arraigned in court for treason following the end bad governance protests of August and October 2024.

“We will continue to work with relevant stakeholders, including civil society organizations, the private sector, etc., to promote a culture of respect for human rights in Nigeria.”

Tony Ojukwu, executive secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), said the commission is committed to going the extra mile to ensure that Nigeria becomes a model of human rights protection worthy of the attention of other African nations and beyond.

“This year, we expanded our sensitisation campaigns, increased engagement with stakeholders, built capacity for responders, and also leveraged social media platforms to amplify messages, raise awareness, and also engaged with the public,” Ojukwu said.

“Besides, we deepened our collaboration with civil society organisations, government agencies, and other stakeholders to amplify our efforts and ensure a coordinated response to gender-based violence.”

Ojukwu also appealed to Nigerians to support the human rights fund, which he noted remains unfunded to date.