On the night of May 27-28, 2026, unknown individuals broke into the office of Me Assiom K. Bokodjin, a Togolese lawyer and human rights defender. The break-in resulted in the theft of five computers and one external hard drive, containing sensitive data on ongoing and closed cases, including those involving allegations of torture, rape, and cruel treatment by security forces. Me Bokodjin has been representing individuals in cases related to human rights abuses, including those committed during the 2025 protests.
The Togolese Bar Association has been informed of the incident, and Me Bokodjin has expressed concerns that the break-in was an attempt to intimidate him and compromise the security of his clients. The stolen equipment contained sensitive information on cases involving high-ranking government officials and military personnel. Human rights organizations, including the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the World Organization Against Torture (OMCT), have been alerted to the situation and are calling for swift action.
Despite the gravity of the incident, no progress has been reported in the investigation over three months later. Me Bokodjin's office has been diligent in pursuing the case, filing a complaint with the police and informing the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH). The CNDH has confirmed that it has notified the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Security, but no concrete developments have been shared publicly.
The lack of progress in the investigation has raised concerns about the Togolese government's commitment to protecting human rights defenders. The UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders imposes an obligation on states to protect defenders from violence, threats, and intimidation. The Basic Principles on the Role of the Bar, adopted by the UN in 1990, also require governments to ensure that lawyers can practice their profession without fear of harassment or reprisal.
The absence of a specific law protecting human rights defenders in Togo has created a precarious environment for those advocating for human rights. An draft law has been under discussion for several years, but its adoption has been delayed. Human rights organizations are urging the Togolese government to expedite the passage of this law to provide a clear framework for protecting defenders and ensuring their safety.
The case of Me Bokodjin highlights the risks faced by human rights defenders in Togo. The lack of progress in the investigation and the absence of a protective framework for defenders have created a climate of fear and uncertainty. Human rights organizations are calling on the Togolese authorities to take immediate action to investigate the break-in, protect Me Bokodjin and his clients, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
In a joint statement, the FIDH, OMCT, and other human rights organizations have urged the Togolese authorities to take concrete steps to address the situation. They have called for an immediate investigation, protection for Me Bokodjin and his clients, and the adoption of a law protecting human rights defenders. The organizations have also expressed concern about the broader implications of the case, including the potential for impunity and the erosion of trust in the justice system.
Key points
- Human rights organizations are calling for the Togolese government to investigate the break-in at Me Bokodjin's office and protect human rights defenders.
- The absence of a specific law protecting human rights defenders in Togo has created a precarious environment for those advocating for human rights.
- The case of Me Bokodjin highlights the risks faced by human rights defenders in Togo and the need for swift action to ensure their safety and protection.
