The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reported a 25% increase in human rights violation complaints in Nigeria for February 2025. The NHRC received 205,364 complaints, compared to 169,850 in January.
The NHRC Human Rights Dashboard, which tracks monthly reports on rights violations, revealed troubling trends. NHRC Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu highlighted key issues, including:
- Mass killings and abductions in the North-West and North-Central regions
- Cult-related violence and communal clashes
- Extra-judicial killings by security forces
- A resurgence of Boko Haram attacks
- An increase in rape and domestic violence cases
In February 2025, the NHRC recorded:
- 341 rape cases
- 136 cases of sexual violence
- 6,954 complaints of domestic violence
- 1,400 cases of child abandonment
- 191 killings, including 45 from communal clashes
- 144 abductions
- 121 deaths from vehicle accidents
Several new laws passed in February raised human rights concerns. Laws 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 introduced severe penalties, including the death penalty for cultism and kidnapping.
The NHRC cautioned that while strong measures against crime are necessary, justice must be fair and align with international human rights standards. Additionally, a proposed death penalty for counterfeit drug production by NAFDAC has sparked concerns over punishment versus human rights.
Child abandonment cases spiked in February, mainly due to severe economic challenges. To address this, the NHRC introduced a Child Safeguarding Policy to protect vulnerable children and ensure their rights are upheld.
Security agencies continue to top the list of human rights violators. The NHRC stressed the need for greater accountability in law enforcement, urging authorities to respect human rights while enforcing laws.
As human rights violations increase, the NHRC remains committed to addressing these issues and advocating for justice and protection for all Nigerians.
