The US has criticised Nigeria’s justice system and wage enforcement, but the Presidency insists reforms and economic stabilisation are underway.
The United States has raised concerns over security and justice delivery in Nigeria, citing arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, and weaknesses in the judicial system.
In its 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, the US Department of State highlighted cases of suspects held indefinitely without trial, poor enforcement of bail laws, and political influence on judicial processes. “Some detainees were held in pre-trial detention for periods equal or exceeding the maximum sentence for the accused crime,” the report stated.
The report also noted that the new N70,000 minimum wage had been eroded by the continued depreciation of the naira, pegging workers’ earnings at just $47.90 per month. It further observed that many employers with fewer than 25 staff were exempt, leaving most workers outside legal protection.
Reacting, the Presidency insisted reforms were underway. “Our judicial system continues to address concerns about lengthy pre-trial periods alongside other issues,” said presidential aide Sunday Dare.