Tinubu’s Administration Vows To Uphold Law, Protect Citizens’ Rights

The Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has reiterated President Bola Tinubu‘s administration’s commitment to upholding the law and defending citizens’ rights.

As the nation’s Chief Law Officer, Fagbemi pledged to ensure that no individual rights are infringed upon.

Fagbemi stressed that law enforcement agents must exercise due diligence before making arrests. He condemned the practice of detaining individuals beyond the constitutionally allowed time frame or court orders, stating that such actions would no longer be tolerated.

Addressing the annual lecture of the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) in Abuja, Fagbemi emphasized the importance of adhering to Section 35 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the rights of individuals in custody.

As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Fagbemi highlighted that any security personnel found violating these constitutional rights would face severe penalties.

His lecture, titled “Governance, Security, and Human Rights,” aimed to address some of the most urgent challenges facing Nigeria today.

The AGF assured that violators of these provisions would face appropriate consequences.

Fagbemi stated, “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.”

Fagbemi also praised HURIWA’s role in promoting human rights through advocacy and public education. He encouraged collaboration to foster a Nigeria where governance, security, and human rights are seamlessly integrated.

“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,” Fagbemi concluded.