Eradicating Torture Requires Unified Action from All Sectors, Says Beatrice Jedy-Agba

The Solicitor General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba, has called for a united front in the fight against torture in Nigeria.

She emphasized that eliminating the scourge of torture will require genuine collaboration among all stakeholders—government institutions, civil society organizations (CSOs), and citizens.

Speaking in Abuja during the 2025 International Day in Support of Victims of Torture—an event organized by the Ministry of Justice in collaboration with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)—Jedy-Agba commended ongoing efforts but stressed the need for deeper partnerships to end what she described as a deeply entrenched practice.

“Torture is a gross violation of human dignity and cannot be tolerated in any form. The eradication of this crime depends on coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, particularly CSOs and the public, who play crucial roles in reporting abuses and advocating for justice,” she said.

She highlighted various initiatives by the Ministry aimed at preventing torture, including reforms to Nigeria’s legal framework. Notably, the Anti-Torture Act (2017) has been strengthened with new Implementing Regulations, which cover key gaps such as procedures for prosecuting offenders, access to medical examinations, and the rehabilitation of victims. These regulations are currently awaiting gazetting.

Jedy-Agba also revealed that the Ministry is reviewing the Anti-Torture Act based on recommendations from the United Nations Committee Against Torture (CAT), to enhance its effectiveness. Additional actions include visits to detention facilities and the establishment of a National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) under the NHRC, aligned with Nigeria’s obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT).

“We cannot afford to merely pay lip service. This is about instituting lasting reforms and holding perpetrators accountable,” she stressed.
“We are open to working with development partners and experts to strengthen our systems and improve outcomes.”

Jedy-Agba decried the normalization of torture in detention facilities and called on both public and private actors to unite in condemning and preventing the practice.

“Every human being deserves dignity. Torture is a crime—prohibited under all circumstances—and must be addressed with a zero-tolerance approach,” she added.

Police, NHRC Reaffirm Commitment

Representing the Inspector General of Police, DCP Daniel Haliba reiterated the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding human rights and preventing torture.

“We recognize the lasting trauma suffered by victims of torture and are working to implement policies that protect human dignity. Preventing torture is central to our mission,” he said.
“We call on all institutions and citizens to join in strengthening accountability frameworks and providing comprehensive support for survivors.”

In his remarks, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the NHRC, expressed the Commission’s readiness to partner with the Ministry of Justice, the National Committee Against Torture, and others to meet both domestic and international human rights obligations.

“We commend the progress made through laws such as the Anti-Torture Act (2017) and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015), as well as the establishment of the National Preventive Mechanism,” said Ojukwu, represented by his adviser and Director of Monitoring, Benedict Agu.

He added that Section 34 of the 1999 Constitution guarantees the right to human dignity and must be upheld in all institutions. However, significant gaps remain.

“Preventing torture requires consistent political will, adequate training for law enforcement agencies, and strong oversight mechanisms. Survivors also need access to legal, medical, and psychosocial support,” he stated.

National Preventive Mechanism Backs Collective Approach

Also speaking, Kabiru Elayo of the National Preventive Mechanism emphasized that the fight against torture must be rooted in respect for human dignity and the rule of law.

“Torture undermines public trust and weakens justice institutions. The NPM is committed to ensuring that no individual, regardless of status, is subjected to abuse or neglect in any form of custody.”

The event served as a rallying call for stronger institutional reform, broader public awareness, and the firm enforcement of anti-torture legislation in Nigeria. Participants agreed that only through shared responsibility and consistent action can torture be truly eliminated.