NBA Human Rights Institute Demands Justice for Abused 14-Year-Old IDP Girl, Bashariya
The Nigerian Bar Association Human Rights Institute (NBA-HRI) has unequivocally condemned the appalling abuse of Miss Bashariya, a 14-year-old internally displaced girl from Zamfara State, who was reportedly subjected to physical and psychological torture while employed as a domestic servant in Abuja.
According to widely circulated reports and distressing video evidence, Bashariya—whose family fled from violent banditry and now resides in an IDP camp near Gwiwa Eka—was employed by Mrs. Fauziya, the wife of Abubakar Zaki Esq., a sitting judge in Sokoto State.
Upon arrival in Abuja, the young girl was allegedly subjected to starvation, severe beatings, and acts of torture—including being burned with fire—constituting grave violations of her fundamental human rights and clear acts of criminality.
Even more alarming, the girl’s parents were reportedly threatened and warned against pursuing justice, with claims that “nothing can or would be done” about the abuse. The NBA-HRI has denounced such impunity and called it a flagrant affront to the rule of law.
“No individual is above the law—not even members of the judiciary or their families,” the Institute stated. “We wholly condemn the misuse of privilege and position to brutalise the vulnerable.”
The NBA-HRI has made the following demands:
1) The immediate arrest and prosecution of Mrs. Fauziya and all individuals complicit in the abuse of Miss Bashariya;
2) A full and impartial investigation conducted by law enforcement authorities, with oversight from the National Human Rights Commission and child welfare agencies;
3) Immediate placement of Miss Bashariya in protective custody, along with comprehensive medical and psychological care to aid her recovery;
4) A formal review of Judge Abubakar Zaki's conduct, given the serious nature of the allegations involving his household;
5) Full sponsorship of Bashariya’s education up to university level as part of reparative justice.
The Institute reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to upholding the rights of all Nigerians—particularly children, women, and displaced persons—who are often the most vulnerable to abuse and exploitation.
It further called on the legal community, civil society organisations, and all relevant authorities to ensure that justice for Bashariya is swift, transparent, and unequivocally delivered.
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