A Woman Rights Activist, Mrs Anisa Ari, has advised the Federal Government to take practical steps to eradicate torture in the country.
Ari, who is the Senior Programme Coordinator of Women Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA), an NGO, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Abuja.
NAN reports that the United Nations (UN) International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is held annually on 26 June.
It aimed at encouraging people to speak out against the crime of torture, to honour and support victims and survivors throughout the world.
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She recommended a “human rights based approach’’ in dealing with the issue of torture.
“Today is designated to pay respect to those who have experienced and endured different levels of torture and it is important to start integrating a human rights approach in dealing with the issue.
“The enactment of the Anti-Torture Act in December, 2017, was supposed to send a strong signal that torture of any type against any person or group was unacceptable and thus condemnable.
“Recent events call to question the efficacy and implementation of the Act because of the prevalence of torture in our society,’’ she said.
Ari said that violence against Nigerians by a department of the police was worrisome and needed to be addressed.
“The Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) has, of recent, been perceived as an institution of horror by many Nigerians.
“Government also went ahead to set up a presidential panel to reform the SARS, but the positive effect has not been very visible.
“People have a right to dignity and security to live their lives to their fullest potential, with no fear of undue attack and injustice.
“Let us do better than normal,’’ she said.
NAN reports that June 26 has been designated by the UN as International Day in Support of Victims of Torture.
It is observed annually to speak out against the crime of torture and to honour and support victims and survivors throughout the world. (NAN)
