Abuja, Nigeria – Complaints of human rights violations in Nigeria soared by 25% in February 2025, with the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) reporting a total of 205,364 cases—a significant jump from 169,850 complaints in January.
NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, revealed these figures while presenting the February Human Rights Dashboard in Abuja. He described a troubling rise in cases involving mass killings, abductions, extrajudicial executions, cult-related violence, and sexual crimes, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions.
Alarming Trends: Killings, Abductions, and Sexual Violence
The report detailed a disturbing increase in violent crimes:
191 killings, including 45 deaths from communal clashes.
144 reported abductions nationwide.
341 rape cases, alongside 136 incidents of sexual violence.
6,954 cases of domestic violence.
1,400 cases of child abandonment, a crisis linked to deepening economic hardships.
Suicide rates and attacks on academic institutions were also highlighted as growing concerns. Additionally, 121 fatalities from vehicle accidents were documented.
Legislation Raises Human Rights Concerns
While some states have enacted tough laws to curb crime, the NHRC raised alarms over potential human rights violations.
Dr. Ojukwu cited the Edo State Secret Cult and Similar Activities (Prohibition) Law 2025, the Anambra Homeland Security Law 2025, and the Edo State Kidnapping Prohibition Law 2025, which impose severe penalties, including the death penalty for cultism and ritual-related kidnappings.
“While strong measures are necessary to combat violent crimes, justice must align with international human rights standards to protect the rights of the accused,” Ojukwu warned.
He also voiced concerns over the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC)’s proposal for the death penalty on counterfeit drug offenses, stressing the need to balance punishment with human rights.
NHRC Pushes for Child Protection and Law Enforcement Accountability
To tackle child abandonment, the NHRC has introduced a Child Safeguarding Policy, aimed at protecting vulnerable children and ensuring their rights are upheld.
Additionally, the NHRC criticized law enforcement agencies, which remain the biggest violators of human rights in Nigeria.
“This month alone, we received 205,364 complaints, with a significant number involving state actors. Those entrusted with enforcing the law must be held accountable for their actions,” Ojukwu stated.
The NHRC has urged authorities to prioritize accountability, uphold human rights, and address systemic abuses in law enforcement.
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