The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has announced a 25 percent increase in human rights violations in Nigeria for February 2025, with 205,364 complaints recorded. This marks a significant rise from the 169,850 complaints reported in January 2025.
NHRC Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, disclosed this during the presentation of the February 2025 Human Rights Dashboard in Abuja. The dashboard provides a detailed breakdown of the human rights situation in the country, highlighting alarming trends such as mass killings, abductions, sexual violence, and extrajudicial killings.
Ojukwu expressed concern over the disturbing rise in human rights violations, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions, where incidents of mass killings, abductions, and communal violence were prevalent. He also noted a resurgence of Boko Haram-related attacks, cult-related killings, and an increase in rape cases, with 341 rape complaints and 136 cases of sexual violence recorded in February.
Domestic violence complaints also surged, with 6,954 cases reported, while child abandonment spiked to approximately 1,400 cases. The dashboard further revealed 191 killings, including 45 deaths from communal clashes, and 144 abductions. Additionally, 121 deaths from vehicle-related accidents were recorded.
Ojukwu highlighted emerging human rights concerns, including a rise in suicide cases and attacks on academic communities. He also raised alarms over state legislations and policies aimed at addressing insecurity, which he said could threaten citizens’ rights.
“February witnessed the enactment of several laws with significant human rights implications, such as 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,” Ojukwu stated.
“While these laws impose severe penalties, including the death penalty, for crimes like cultism and kidnapping, it is crucial to ensure that the rights of the accused are upheld and that justice aligns with international human rights standards.”
Ojukwu also addressed the proposed death penalty for counterfeit drug offenses by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), urging a balance between punishment and human rights.
To tackle the rising cases of child abandonment, the NHRC has established a Child Safeguarding Policy aimed at protecting children and young persons who interact with the Commission.
Ojukwu emphasized the need for accountability within law enforcement agencies, noting that state actors remain the top perpetrators of human rights violations.
“This month’s 205,364 complaints underscore the ongoing challenges in securing human rights for all Nigerians. Violations involving state actors continue to top the list, which is a grave concern,” he said.
“The use of power must always align with human rights standards, and any abuses must be swiftly addressed.”
DAILY MENTOR reports that the NHRC’s findings highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address human rights violations in Nigeria, particularly in the face of rising insecurity and economic hardship. The Commission’s call for accountability and adherence to international standards remains critical in safeguarding citizens’ rights.