Prominent human rights lawyer, Pius D. Pius, has expressed deep concern over the growing number of inmates in Nigerian correctional facilities who are being held without trial, revealing that between 60 to 70 percent of the prison population falls into this category.
Speaking in Jalingo, Taraba State, during an event marking the 2025 International Human Rights Day, Pius described the situation as a blatant violation of justice. He noted that many detainees have remained in custody for two to three years without being formally charged or arraigned in court.
“This is unacceptable. Human rights abuses are on the rise in Nigeria. People are suffering — they are hungry, sick, and their rights are trampled upon without consequence. We’re seeing alarming trends: police brutality, overcrowded prisons, child abuse, forced labour, and widening social inequality,” he said.
Pius urged Nigerians to be more proactive in defending their rights and the rights of others, stressing that “an injustice to one is an injustice to all.”
As part of activities to commemorate Human Rights Day, Pius announced that his law firm, PD Pius and Associates, will be providing free legal representation to 20 indigent Nigerians. He said the initiative aligns with the Legal Aid Council Act and is aimed at assisting victims of prolonged detention and other rights violations.
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