The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised an alarm over the concerning surge in human rights violations across Nigeria, with over 1,580 reported cases in March alone.
The commission, tasked with monitoring and investigating alleged human rights abuses, revealed a disturbing trend spanning all six geopolitical zones of the country.
According to the NHRC’s Human Rights Situation Dashboard for March, the North Central region topped the list with 468 reported cases, while state actors such as the police, military, and the Department of State Services (DSS) were implicated in 94 violations.
The reported violations encompassed various atrocities, such as killings, kidnappings, domestic violence, and infringements on children’s rights.
Mr. Hilary Ogbonna, senior human rights adviser at NHRC, stated some of the most distressing incidents, including the recent killings of security personnel in Delta State and the abduction of over 300 school children in Kaduna State. Additionally, cases of domestic violence were alarmingly prevalent, with 471 incidents recorded during the period.
Ogbonna stated the need for concerted efforts to address the escalating crisis. He urged government authorities to prioritize the economic welfare of citizens and called on law enforcement agencies to conduct thorough investigations in accordance with legal standards.
NHRC’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Anthony Ojukwu, SAN, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to uphold human rights. He pledged to collaborate with all stakeholders, including government bodies and international organizations, to enhance efforts in protecting the populace and safeguarding their fundamental rights.
