Following the gruesome killing of 16 traveling hunters in Edo state who were mistaken as kidnappers, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has strongly condemned the action.
This was just as the rights commision also commended the swift action taken by the Edo state governor, Monday Okpebholo in arresting the perpetrators and other actions taken to douse tension.
The executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu expressed deep concern over this horrific incident, which highlights the dangers of mob justice and the urgent need for effective law enforcement and respect for human rights.
A statement released by the commision, Tuesday, expressed worry over the killings stating that the sanctity of life and respect to rights of living must be respected.
The statement reads in part;
“We commend Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his swift and decisive action in suspending the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), and banning all illegal vigilante groups operating in the state, but more need to be done” he said.
Ojukwu said the Commission wishes to use this opportunity to remind the government and the people of Nigeria that every individual has the right to life, as enshrined in Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution as amended as well as Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
Furthermore, he said the Commission emphasized that the freedom of movement, as guaranteed by the Constitution and Article 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 12 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, has been grossly violated in this dastardly incident.
“We at the Commission demand that all the perpetrators be fished out and brought to justice. We call on the government to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future, there is no justification for jungle justice anywhere in the world” he said.
The executive Secretary emphasized that every Nigerian has the right to life, dignity, and freedom from violence, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or occupation.
He said the Commission will continue to advocate for the protection of human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria. “We urge the Edo State Government to continue its investigation into the killings and ensure that all perpetrators face the full wrath of the law. On our part, we will continue to monitor the process of investigation to ensure that justice is served. This will serve as a deterrent to others.
“Promotion and protection of human rights is paramount to national development, let’s all imbibe the culture of respect for human rights and fundamental freedom to make Nigeria a better place”. The Human Rights Advocate admonished.
