ORAL STATEMENT
Humanists International
UN Human Rights Council, 56th session (18 June –12 July 2024)
UPR Outcome of Nigeria
Speaker: Ingye Dominic Dooyum
Thank you, Mr. President. I make this statement on behalf of Humanists International, the Advocacy for Alleged Witches, and the Humanist Association of Nigeria.
We welcome Nigeria’s acceptance of several UPR recommendations related to addressing discrimination, violence, and harmful traditional practices, including by raising awareness of harmful gender stereotypes among religious leaders and of the criminalization of harmful traditional practices. However, we remain deeply concerned about the human rights violations linked to witchcraft accusations and persecution.
In Nigeria, people, often women and children, face torture, banishment and even extrajudicial killings due to witchcraft accusations. In the last three years, the Advocacy for Alleged Witches has documented over 100 cases of violent attacks on those branded as witches. Tragically, these are just the tip of the iceberg.
Therefore, we call on the Nigerian government to urgently implement the accepted UPR recommendations by enacting legislation to prohibit witch hunts and ensure perpetrators of such violence are held accountable. The government must also provide comprehensive support and rehabilitation services for victims of witchcraft accusations and related attacks.
Furthermore, we urge the government to work closely with human rights organizations such as the Advocacy for Alleged Witches to raise awareness and combat the harmful superstitious beliefs that lead to or fuel these human rights abuses. Only then can Nigeria fully uphold its international human rights obligations and protect the safety and dignity of all its citizens.
Thank you.
'Harmful Traditional Practices in Nigeria', Humanists International