International Human Rights Protection Service Calls for Accountability, Rule of Law, and Respect for Citizens’ Fundamental Rights
The International Human Rights Protection Service (Forum) has issued a strong warning to security agencies across Nigeria, urging them to uphold the constitutional rights of citizens and end all forms of human rights violations.
The warning was delivered by the Special Envoy for West Africa, Amb. Dr. Charles Omini, during the ongoing National Civil Society Organisations (NCSOS) 2026 Summit in Lagos.
Respect the Constitution and Human Rights
Addressing participants at the summit, Amb. Dr. Omini emphasized that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), alongside international treaties such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rightsand the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, guarantees every Nigerian the right to life, dignity, personal liberty, and freedom from torture or inhuman treatment.
He stated that the organization is deeply concerned over the increasing reports of human rights abuses allegedly committed by some security personnel across the country.
Alleged Human Rights Violations Identified
According to the International Human Rights Protection Service, documented complaints and reports include:
Alleged extrajudicial killings and excessive use of force during arrests and public protests.
Unlawful arrests, illegal detention, and prolonged detention without trial.
Cases of torture, extortion, and brutality at checkpoints, police stations, and during stop-and-search operations.
Violations of due process, including public parading of suspects and denial of access to lawyers and family members.
Harassment of journalists, activists, students, and citizens exercising their constitutional rights to freedom of expression and peaceful protest.
Illegal seizure of personal property, including mobile phones, vehicles, and money without lawful authorization.
“No Security Agency Is Above the Law”
Amb. Omini stressed that every security agency must operate within the law, warning that abuse of power weakens public confidence and threatens national security.
He noted that the organization will continue documenting cases of alleged human rights violations and forward verified reports to relevant oversight bodies, including the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and appropriate international institutions where necessary.
He further maintained that peaceful protest and freedom of expression remain constitutional rights and should never be criminalized.
International Human Rights Protection Service Makes Key Demands
The organization called on the Federal Government, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other security agencies to:
Investigate all reported cases of alleged human rights abuses.
Prosecute officers found culpable.
Obey court orders and release individuals being held unlawfully.
Strengthen human rights training and professional conduct among security personnel.
Establish transparent complaint and accountability mechanisms nationwide.
Provide compensation to victims of unlawful detention and human rights violations.
Message to Nigerian Citizens
The organization also encouraged Nigerians to remain law-abiding while standing up for their constitutional rights.
Citizens were advised to:
Know and understand their fundamental rights.
Avoid offering bribes to security personnel.
Safely document incidents where possible.
Report cases of abuse to recognized human rights organizations.
Commitment to Justice
Concluding his address, Amb. Dr. Charles Omini reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to defending the rights of Nigerians.
He stated that lasting national development can only thrive where justice, accountability, and respect for human dignity prevail.”Nigeria cannot truly develop where fear replaces justice. Security must never come at the expense of human dignity. We will continue to monitor, document, and speak out until every Nigerian can live free from fear.”
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