HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS WELCOMES PROMISED RELEASE OF POLITICAL PRISONERS IN NIGERIA

HR/98/50
21 July 1998



Mrs. Robinson Expresses Hope that Pledges for Respect of Human Rights Will Soon "Turn to Reality"


The following statement was issued today by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Mary Robinson:

“I followed with great interest the statement made today by General Abdulsalam Abubakar of Nigeria and I welcome his announcement that all political detainees will be freed and that his administration will respect human rights.

As General Abubakar said himself, Nigerians want nothing less than true democracy in a united and peaceful country. Recent developments represent an opportunity to break with the past and usher in a new era of civilian, democratic rule. Nigeria's authorities have an opportunity to embark on a process of transition achieved through broad consultation and full respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, as pledged today by General Abubakar. I am heartened by his stated commitment to respect, among others, the freedoms of expression, assembly and association and to allow non-governmental organizations and other associations to function freely within the law. I fervently hope that these encouraging words will soon be translated into reality.

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights stands ready to assist Nigeria in its process of transition, which in order to be successful must take full account of all human rights. With this in mind I hope that the Nigerian Government will welcome a visit to the country, as early as possible, by the Special Rapporteur of the Commission on Human Rights on the situation in Nigeria, Soli Sorabjee.”