The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT) is scheduled to conduct a visit to Nigeria from September 8 to 19.
This visit, the Subcommittee’s second to Nigeria, will focus on evaluating the treatment of detainees and determining whether the nation has improved its mechanisms for safeguarding the human rights of those in custody since their last visit a decade ago.
During their stay, the SPT delegation will inspect various detention facilities, including prisons, police stations, and psychiatric institutions. They will also meet with Nigerian authorities, including the National Human Rights Commission, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to discuss measures for preventing torture and enhancing detention oversight.
“The SPT’s visit presents a significant opportunity for Nigeria to reinforce its commitment to preventing torture and improving safeguards within detention facilities,” stated Aisha Shujune Muhammad, Head of the delegation. “It also provides a chance to assist the authorities in establishing a National Mechanism for Prevention of Torture (NPM), as required by the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture, which Nigeria ratified in 2009,” she added.
Upon conclusion of their visit, the SPT will deliver confidential preliminary observations to the Nigerian government. A detailed confidential report outlining the Subcommittee’s concerns and recommendations will be provided to Nigerian authorities thereafter.
The SPT delegation will be led by Aisha Shujune Muhammad from the Maldives, and includes Satyabhooshun Gupt Domah (Mauritius), Andrew Christoffel Nissen (South Africa), and Victor Zaharia (Moldova). They will be accompanied by two Human Rights Officers from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
