1. In line with the mandate of the National Human Rights Commission as enshrined in its enabling Act (The National Human Rights Commission Act 1995 as amended), the Governing Council of NHRC recently concluded its statutory meeting which held from 15th to 16th May 2023 at the Council Chambers of the Commission. The meeting saw the deliberation on several crucial issues, resulting in far-reaching decisions for promotion and protection of human rights in Nigeria.
2. One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the recognition of the necessity to have a practice direction for the effective implementation of Section 22 of the NHRC Amendment Act 2010. This section emphasizes the binding nature of awards and decisions issued by the Commission on parties.
3. Working in collaboration with the National Judicial Council (NJC), the Council is committed to formulating comprehensive guidelines to ensure the recognition and enforcement of these awards and decisions, as this will further strengthen the NHRC's ability to protect human rights.
4. It is worth noting that the Special Independent Investigative Panel on Human Rights Violation by the Defunct SARS and Other Units of the Nigeria Police Force previously constituted to deal with issues of human rights violations perpetrated by the police, brought relief to some victims of human rights violations through the payment of compensation to various categories of victims and made recommendation for prosecution of erring officers.
5. In response to the on-going concerns surrounding police brutality and human rights violations in the country, the Council unanimously agreed to reconstitute the Panel on Police Brutality and Human Rights Violations. This important step aims to address these grave violations and foster a safe environment for all citizens, ensuring payment of compensation to victims of SARS protests and human rights violation generally.
6. Another significant development highlighted during the meeting was that the NHRC Repeal and Re-Enactment Act 2023 has been forwarded to the President, Commander-in-Chief, for his assent. The Council emphasized that when assented to, it will represent a crucial milestone in strengthening the NHRC's mandate to protect and promote human rights in the country and help to mobilise resources for the implementation of the National Action Plan for promotion and protection of human rights recently approved by the Federal Executive Council.
7. Furthermore, the Council acknowledged the importance of the on-coming re-accreditation process of the Commission by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI). Efforts have been made to fulfil the necessary requirements for a successful re-accreditation of the Commission in order to ensure that the Commission maintains its present ‘A’ Status.
8. During the meeting, the Council also discussed the progress made by the Panel investigating the Reuters Allegation of Human Rights Violations by the Nigerian Military during counter-insurgency operations in the North-East region. Emphasizing the need for a thorough and impartial investigation, the Council reiterated its commitment to addressing any potential violations and ensuring accountability for such violations. It encouraged all victims or persons who have credible evidence to approach the panel and Council emphasised that witnesses who wished to testify in privacy were free to do so.
9. Reports from the Council Committees on Appointment, Promotion and Discipline, as well as the Finance and General Purposes were presented and deliberated upon, reflecting the Council's dedication to informed decision-making and efficient functioning of the NHRC.
10. Furthermore, the Council gave due consideration to the complaints received from the Complaints Handling Departments of the Commission concerning human rights violations. These complaints were promptly addressed following established procedures, underscoring the NHRC's commitment to protecting human rights. Complaints treated cut across various Thematic Areas of focus ranging from Civil and Political Rights, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, to Women and Children and Vulnerable Groups.
11. The National Human Rights Commission remains resolute in its dedication to upholding and protecting the fundamental rights of all individuals within the country.
12. The outcome of the Council meeting serves as a testament to the Commission's commitment to address critical issues as well as strengthen the promotion and protection of human rights in Nigeria.
Chief Tony Ojukwu OFR, SAN, FICMC
Executive Secretary, NHRC.
