NHRC Warns of Surge in Human Rights Violations in Nigeria, Reports Over 331,000 Complaints in July

Persistent violence and systemic abuses threaten citizen security and dignity, says NHRC

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By A1 News Desk | Abuja, Nigeria | August 19, 2025

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised alarms over escalating human rights violations across Nigeria, citing over 331,000 complaints received in July 2025 alone. In a statement on Tuesday, NHRC Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu, OFR, SAN, warned that ongoing violence, targeted killings, and systemic abuses are endangering citizens’ security and dignity.

Alarming Statistics and Incidents
According to the NHRC’s July 2025 Human Rights Situation Dashboard, most complaints involved law enforcement abuses, discrimination, and violations of economic and social rights. Key incidents included:

Sokoto State: 15 men killed in a reprisal attack by suspected members of the Lakurawa group.
Kebbi State: Three police officers murdered during a failed abduction attempt.
Nationwide: Vigilante-related incidents recorded nearly 100 fatalities.

Dr. Ojukwu cautioned that the weakening of vigilante groups, who often support state security agencies, threatens collective security and the protection of basic freedoms.

Security Agencies and Recent Successes
While highlighting rising threats, the NHRC acknowledged the arrests of leaders of Ansaru, a terrorist group notorious for human rights abuses. Dr. Ojukwu commended the Department of State Services, Armed Forces, and Office of the National Security Adviser, urging authorities to ensure prompt prosecution of those apprehended.

Calls for Action
The Commission outlined urgent recommendations for all stakeholders:

Security agencies: Uphold professionalism and human rights standards.
Government authorities: Address root causes such as poverty, impunity, and institutional weaknesses.
Civil society and media: Raise awareness and sustain pressure on violators.
Citizens: Reject violence, injustice, and indifference.

Strengthening Oversight and Accountability
NHRC plans to intensify efforts through:

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Expanding real-time tracking and early-warning systems.
Deepening collaboration with law enforcement for accountability.
Enhancing complaint-resolution mechanisms.
Advocating systemic reforms to combat insecurity and discrimination.

The NHRC Executive Secretary also praised state offices, civil society partners, and the UNDP Tripartite Partnership Programme for supporting the initiative.

Rising Violence Across States
Reports detail targeted killings, vigilante fatalities, and law enforcement abuses.

NHRC Engages Stakeholders to Reverse Trends
Commission calls for reforms, collaboration, and citizen vigilance.

Support for Security Operations
Acknowledges arrests of terrorist leaders and urges swift prosecution.

The surge in human rights violations underscores systemic insecurity and institutional weaknesses in Nigeria. Effective reforms, enforcement of rights, and citizen engagement are essential to protecting lives, safeguarding freedoms, and restoring public confidence.