The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has waded into the ongoing controversy surrounding the arrest and detention of popular social media commentator, VeryDarkBlackMan (VDM), assured Nigerians that steps are being taken to ensure his fundamental human rights are protected.
In a statement made available to journalists, the Commission disclosed that its Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu , has initiated engagements with relevant authorities and directed immediate inquiries into the matter in line with the Commission’s statutory mandate.
The intervention was announced by Mr. Benedict Agu, Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary, while addressing a group of protesters who gathered at the Commission’s headquarters to register their displeasure over VDM’s arrest.
Dr. Ojukwu lauded the protesters for conducting themselves peacefully, describing their action as a demonstration of responsible civic engagement and democratic maturity.
He reaffirmed the Commission’s unwavering commitment to the protection of human rights, particularly the right to freedom of expression as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and international human rights instruments.
“The Commission will continue to monitor the case to ensure due process is observed and the rule of law upheld,” he stated.
Dr. Ojukwu further assured that the NHRC remained resolute in discharging its responsibilities and will continue to defend the rights of all individuals living in Nigeria, without fear or favour.
