US Asks Tinubu To Implement #EndSARS Reports, Prosecute Indicted Persons
Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been urged by the United States government to carry out the recommendations from multiple #EndSARS panels of inquiry established in over 20 states across the country.
These panels were instituted to investigate instances of human rights abuses by security agencies during the 2020 #EndSARS protests.
This call was made by the United States during the 4th cycle Universal Period Review of Nigeria at the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland.
In addressing human rights concerns in Nigeria, a representative of the US government specifically requested that the Nigerian government take proactive measures to implement the findings from the various #EndSARS reports.
Furthermore, the US representative emphasized the need for amendments to the Nigerian Press Council Act, advocating for the removal of restrictions on freedom of expression.
Moreover, there was a call to review the standard operating procedure of the armed forces with the aim of safeguarding human rights.
Vanguard quoted the US representative as saying, “Our main concern is certain restrictions on Nigerians’ enjoyment of human rights. In the spirit of constructive engagement, we recommend that Nigeria implement recommendations from state-level investigations panel reports on security forces response to the #EndSARS protests, including prosecution as appropriate of the individuals implicated in the reports.
“Amend the Nigerian Press Act of 1992 to remove restrictions on freedom of expression, specifically as it applies to online and citizen journalists. End the arbitrary arrest and prosecution of LGBT persons and amend the armed forces standard operating procedure to ensure the protection of human rights and fundamental freedom of all Nigerians.”
In reply, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Attorney General of the Federation in Nigeria, expressed gratitude for the UN Human Rights Council’s attention to Nigeria’s affairs and acknowledged the recommendations put forth. Emphasizing that concerns about the credibility of elections in Nigeria are unfounded, he reiterated that the electoral process commences with nomination. Furthermore, he highlighted that the election remains ongoing until the Supreme Court issues a pronouncement.
Fagbemi reportedly said that “The issue of credibility of any election in Nigeria does not arise. Election is a process and until the Supreme Court makes any pronouncements, it cannot be regarded as having come to an end.
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“A pronouncement has been made in respect of the Presidential election and just last week, the last pronouncement was made in respect of governorship elections. The issue of credibility does not arise at all.
“It has been confirmed to be in conformity with the laws guiding the conduct of elections in Nigeria.”
