Foremost human rights lawyer, Femi Falana SAN, has attributed recurring harassment of citizens by security agencies to the inability of lawyers to effectively harness relevant legislations empowering them to act.
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In a statement on Friday, Falana noted that though lawyers readily condemn violations, they have failed to arrest the situation by fully putting to use laws against illegal arrests and detention.
He cited the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and Police Establishment Act which mandate visiting magistrates and judges to inspect detention facilities and release improperly held suspects.
The senior advocate blamed lawyers for not enforcing the provision requiring human rights officers in every police station to curb abuses.
Falana also referenced section 35 of the Police Act allowing arrested persons their right to counsel which lawyers have not optimally exploited.
With adequate laws positioning lawyers to tackle violations, the senior lawyer insisted they are to blame for leaving citizens at the mercy of oppressive officials through inaction.
Falana advised NBA’s human rights committees to join detention facility visits by magistrates and judges for more impact.
By not compelling security agencies to obey human rights laws through the tools available, the senior advocate argued that lawyers have failed citizens.
He urged the bar to become more proactive in utilizing its powers to curb the endemic rights violations and abuse of power in Nigeria.
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