The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed reservations regarding the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control’s (NAFDAC) proposal to institute the death penalty for individuals involved in the sale of counterfeit drugs. The commission highlighted its concerns during the presentation of its dashboard report on Wednesday.
Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, Executive Secretary of the NHRC, stated that the proposed measure raises critical questions about the proportionality of punishment and the safeguarding of fundamental human rights.
“The death penalty proposal by NAFDAC continues to raise concerns regarding the balance between punishment and human rights,” Dr. Ojukwu affirmed.
The commission’s report also drew attention to the recent enactment of several state laws that raise human rights concerns.
“We also have the Edo Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law 2025, the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025, and the Edo Kidnapping Prohibition Law 2025.
“These laws promote severe penalties, including the death penalty, for individuals involved in cultism [and] kidnapping, particularly those linked to ritualistic activities.” Ojukwu noted.
While acknowledging the need for robust measures to combat heinous crimes, Dr. Ojukwu emphasized the importance of upholding the rights of the accused and ensuring that justice is administered in accordance with international human rights standards.
“While we understand the sentiments and the need for strong measures against such heinous acts, it is crucial to ensure that the rights of the accused are upheld and that justice is administered in a manner consistent with international human rights standards,” he asserted.
The NHRC reported receiving a staggering 205,364 complaints, highlighting the persistent challenges in securing human rights for all Nigerians. Dr. Ojukwu expressed grave concern over the continued prevalence of human rights violations involving state actors.
“Inspite of our collective efforts, there are still instances where those entrusted with enforcing the law end up being perpetrators of violations themselves,” he lamented.
“This reality calls for a renewed emphasis on accountability, particularly within law enforcement agencies. The use of power must always align with human rights standards, and any abuses must be swiftly addressed.” he added.
The commission also highlighted troubling trends in the violation of economic, social, and cultural rights. These rights, considered fundamental to human dignity, continue to be neglected across the country, according to Dr. Ojukwu.
Access to essential necessities like food, housing, healthcare, and education remains a significant hurdle for a large segment of the population. He urged immediate action to address these inequalities and to implement policies that ensure equitable access for all Nigerians.
Dr. Ojukwu further addressed several tragic events that occurred in February, impacting communities in various states. He specifically cited the urgent need for a coordinated response from state and federal authorities to quell the cycle of violence in affected regions. He also referenced the tragic deaths of three young children in a freezer in Anambra State, emphasizing the paramount importance of child protection.
“Furthermore, the discovery of three young children who tragically lost their lives in a freezer in Anambra State has shocked the nation. This underscores the importance of child protection, and we urge relevant authorities to intensify efforts to prevent such atrocities from recurring.”
He stressed the importance of dismantling criminal organizations and restoring peace to affected communities, urging decisive action from state and federal law enforcement agencies. The NHRC also noted a disturbing rise in cases of child abandonment—a trend that remains largely unaddressed.
In response to these concerning trends, the NHRC has approved a Child Safeguarding Policy to better protect children.
Mr. Hiliary Ogbonna, a senior human rights advisor at the commission, presented the detailed graphic report of the dashboard.
