AGF Opposes Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill

During a public hearing in Abuja on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, expressed opposition to the proposed Human Rights Defenders Protection Bill. He argued that Nigeria already has sufficient legal frameworks to protect human rights and warned against creating overlapping mandates that could lead to conflicts among government agencies.

Fagbemi urged lawmakers to focus on strengthening existing mechanisms rather than passing new legislation. In contrast, Civil Society Organizations, represented by Jude Ohanel, supported the bill, describing it as a critical step towards strengthening democratic institutions and protecting human rights in Nigeria.

The bill aims to repeal the National Human Rights Commission Act and establish a new framework to enhance the Commission's investigative powers and funding. Concerns were raised about specific clauses in the bill, including mandatory compliance certifications for businesses and provisions that could impose quasi-taxes on certain sectors.

The hearing highlighted the ongoing debate over human rights legislation in Nigeria.