The Executive Secretary of the commission, Tony Ojukwu, flagged the issues in a statement on the International Day of Victims of Enforced Disappearances, describing the rising cases as a grave assault on human dignity.

He noted that the alarming trend has left countless families in anguish and uncertainty, with victims’ loved ones facing psychological trauma and prolonged distress.

“The incessant wave of insecurity ranging from insurgency, banditry, herder-farmer clashes, separatist violence, and worsening poverty; continues to fuel cases of missing persons across the country.

“These violations not only undermine human rights but also erode public trust in the state’s ability to protect its citizens,” he said.

He noted that relevant international human rights instruments, including the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, of which Nigeria is a signatory, are there.

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Mr Ojukwu, in his speech, reminded the government of its obligation to safeguard the rights to liberty, security, recognition before the law, and freedom from torture and ill-treatment.

“The commission urges governments at all levels to adopt proactive measures to address the root causes of insecurity while strengthening accountability and justice mechanisms. They must ensure that perpetrators of kidnappings, abductions, and enforced disappearances are brought to justice,” he said.

Source: PremiumTimes