This essay deals with torture, its effects and negative aspects as well as its situation in Nigeria. Torture is the deliberate act of inflicting severe physical or psychological suffering on someone by another as a punishment or in order to fulfill some desire of the torturer. Reasons for torture can include punishment, revenge, extortion, persuasion, political re-education, deterrence, coercion of the victim or a third party, interrogation to extract information or a confession irrespective of whether it is false, or simply the sadistic gratification of those carrying out or observing the torture. Although torture is sanctioned by some states, it is prohibited under international law and the domestic laws of most countries. Amnesty International estimates that at least 81 world governments currently practice torture, some of them openly.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Types of Torture
- Effectiveness of Torture
- Situation of torture in Nigeria
- Why Torture Persists in Nigeria
- External Oversight of the Nigeria Security Forces
- Nigerian Security Forces Internal Control
- Practices of arrest and detention
- Effects of Torture
- Argument Against Torture
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This work explores the persistent issue of torture within the Nigerian criminal justice system, analyzing its forms, causes, and consequences. The text delves into the history of torture, highlighting its use as a tool for punishment, extraction of information, and political control. It also examines the effectiveness of torture as a means of achieving justice and security, considering arguments for and against its use. The text further investigates the specific situation of torture in Nigeria, examining practices of arrest and detention, the role of the police and military, and the legal framework's limitations in protecting individuals from abuse. The text aims to shed light on the pervasive nature of torture in Nigeria and raise awareness of its detrimental effects on individuals and society as a whole.
- The history and evolution of torture
- The effectiveness of torture as a means of achieving justice and security
- The specific situation of torture in Nigeria
- The legal framework and its limitations in protecting individuals from torture
- The consequences of torture on individuals and society
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This chapter provides a definition of torture and its historical context, highlighting its use throughout history as a method of punishment, interrogation, and political control. It also discusses the international legal framework prohibiting torture and its limitations in practice.
- Types of Torture: This chapter examines various methods of torture employed throughout history, from traditional methods like hanging and boiling to more modern practices like bone breaking, force feeding, and music torture.
- Effectiveness of Torture: This chapter explores the arguments surrounding the effectiveness of torture as a means of achieving justice and security. It presents arguments for the use of torture in specific situations, while also considering its inherent limitations and potential for abuse.
- Situation of torture in Nigeria: This chapter focuses on the prevalence of torture in Nigeria, examining the practices of arrest and detention, the role of the police and military, and the lack of effective legal safeguards against torture. It highlights specific instances of torture documented by human rights organizations.
- Why Torture Persists in Nigeria: This chapter delves into the reasons behind the persistence of torture in Nigeria, examining the lack of accountability, systemic corruption, and limited resources for law enforcement. It also discusses the role of political pressure and cultural factors in perpetuating the use of torture.
- External Oversight of the Nigeria Security Forces: This chapter explores the role of international organizations and human rights groups in monitoring and addressing the issue of torture in Nigeria. It examines the challenges faced by these organizations in gaining access to detainees and ensuring accountability for human rights violations.
- Nigerian Security Forces Internal Control: This chapter analyzes the internal mechanisms within the Nigerian security forces aimed at preventing and addressing torture. It examines the effectiveness of these mechanisms and identifies areas for improvement.
- Practices of arrest and detention: This chapter focuses on the specific practices of arrest and detention in Nigeria, highlighting the lack of legal safeguards, the potential for abuse, and the impact on detainees' human rights.
- Effects of Torture: This chapter explores the devastating consequences of torture on individuals, both physically and psychologically. It highlights the long-term effects on victims' lives, including physical injuries, mental health issues, and social stigma.
- Argument Against Torture: This chapter presents a comprehensive argument against the use of torture, emphasizing its inherent immorality, its ineffectiveness in obtaining reliable information, and its potential for abuse and escalation. It discusses the legal and ethical implications of torture, highlighting its violation of fundamental human rights.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The main focus topics of this text are torture, criminal justice, human rights, law enforcement, police brutality, and the Nigerian context. Key themes include the effectiveness of torture as a means of obtaining information and justice, the legal framework and its limitations in protecting individuals from torture, and the devastating consequences of torture on individuals and society. The text also examines the role of international organizations and human rights groups in monitoring and addressing torture in Nigeria, as well as the challenges and opportunities for reform within the Nigerian security forces.
- Quote paper
- Tomiwa Ogunrinde (Author), 2021, The Use of Torture in Nigeria's Criminal Justice System. An Essay, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1036920