The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called for a thorough investigation and prosecution of all individuals implicated in the alleged inhuman and degrading treatment of Ms. Comfort Emmanson during an incident involving an Ibom Air flight.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (OFR, SAN), condemned any violation of human dignity, stressing that the prohibition of torture and degrading treatment is an absolute right under national, regional, and international law.
Citing the Nigerian Constitution, the Anti-Torture Act 2017, and multiple international human rights instruments, Ojukwu said the alleged use of excessive force, public stripping, and dissemination of compromising videos amounted to severe violations of Emmanson’s dignity and privacy.
“These actions are a clear affront to human dignity and cannot be justified under any circumstances,” he stated, adding that the NHRC will ensure victims on all sides receive support in line with its mandate.
The Commission urged aviation authorities to urgently review protocols for managing unruly passengers to ensure compliance with human rights standards, including fair hearing, freedom from torture, and the safety of all passengers and crew.
An advisory has also been issued to all aviation stakeholders on the “Right to Dignity and Protection Against Torture” in the industry, with the NHRC pledging to monitor developments to prevent future abuses.
