Jonathan Nwokpor
Security personnel around the nation have been advised by Prince Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, not to hold onto suspects for longer than is permitted by law.
Security personnel were especially cautioned by Fagbemi, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, to always follow Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution with regard to the rights of suspects under their care.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) annual lecture, the Attorney General (AGF) issued a warning that security personnel who are discovered to be holding suspects longer than permitted by the constitution risk facing harsh consequences.
He said that his talk, which focused on “Governance, Security, and Human Rights,” was significant since it tackles some of the most urgent problems facing the country today.
He stated that before making an arrest, law enforcement officials must conduct a thorough investigation. He also stated that circumstances in which individuals are kept in detention cells for longer than permitted by the Constitution or by a court order will not be accepted.
The AGF issued a warning, stating that anyone found guilty of unjustified detention will face the proper penalties.
As the nation’s Chief Law Officer, he would make sure that no one infringes on the rights of others, and he will not tolerate any despicable behaviour on the part of the Bola Tinubu administration.
The minister said, “I wish to remind our law enforcement agents that they must respect the laws of the land and not keep people in detention beyond a reasonable time as stipulated in Section 35 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999.
“Law enforcement agents must do due their diligence before arresting anyone. Situations where people are languishing in detention cells beyond the time allowed under the constitution or by order of the courts, will no longer be tolerated and appropriate sanctions shall be meted out to those found guilty of contravening the laws of the land.
“The government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not condone any reprehensible action and as the chief law officer of this country, I will ensure no one tramples on the rights of another person.
“The collaboration of HURIWA in this endeavor cannot be overstated. Your tireless advocacy, and public education are vital to the advancement of human rights in Nigeria.
“As we commemorate this 17th lecture series, let us renew our commitment to working together for a Nigeria where good governance, security, and human rights coexist harmoniously.
“Let us strive to create a society where every Nigerian can live free from fear and oppression, where their rights are respected, and where justice prevails.”
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