The need for holistic reforms of the nation’s laws to safeguard the rights of Nigerians has pitted a federal lawmaker, Oluwole Oke against Abuja-based legal practitioner, Mike Ozekhome, SAN.
Oke, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency, Osun State, chairs the committee on Judiciary.
In a telephone interview with Saturday PUNCH on Friday, Oke noted that human rights are adequately guaranteed in the laws of the land, adding that all that is left is the enforcement of the same and sanction in proven cases of breaches.
He said, “We have adequate laws to safeguard and protect human rights. All that we need is observance of these laws and enforcement of punishment for whoever that violates them.”
However in a contrary reaction, Ozekhome said, “Reforms are urgently required in all ramifications. From arrest, detention, investigation, filing of charges, prosecution, filing of civil cases, hearing/trial, adjournments, delays, up to judgment and conclusion of cases; the entire justice system in Nigeria needs fundamental reforms, rejigging and retooling.
“This is the only way to prevent corruption and abuse of the judicial process. The entire investigative and prosecutorial machinery that brazenly affront citizens’ fundamental rights must be overhauled. Only these can prevent abuse of human rights across Nigeria,” he said.
Speaking in a similar vein, human rights activist and constitutional lawyer, Abdul Mahmud, said, “Addressing human rights abuses in Nigeria requires comprehensive legal reforms aimed at strengthening protections for individuals and the nation-state against individuals intent on destroying it, and holding perpetrators accountable.
