A disturbing trend is unfolding in Nigeria, where human rights violations have reached alarming levels. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has revealed that it received a staggering 261,483 complaints in April 2025 alone, highlighting the gravity of the situation. According to Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu, this number represents only the tip of the iceberg, implying that the actual scope of the problem is far more extensive.
The most pressing concerns are the rampant killings and kidnappings, particularly in the Middle Belt region, which has borne the brunt of the violence. States such as Benue, Plateau, and Borno have emerged as hotspots, with the resurgence of Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks in Borno leaving hundreds of citizens injured or dead. Ojukwu emphasized that the crisis in the Middle Belt is not a new phenomenon, but rather a longstanding issue that has persisted for decades without a solution.
The NHRC’s data paints a grim picture, with the Middle Belt region accounting for 60% of all killings recorded nationwide in April. Complaints from this region alone made up 35% of the national total, reflecting a 20% increase from March 2025. While the Commission successfully concluded 863 complaints and petitions related to human rights violations during the period, the sheer volume of cases far outweighs the progress being made.
Ojukwu has called for urgent intervention from all levels of government to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of human rights abuses. He emphasized the need for independent, impartial, and prompt investigations, as well as support services for victims and accountability for perpetrators. The Commission is also advocating for sustained investment in peacebuilding efforts to address the root causes of the crisis.
The right to life, Ojukwu stressed, is non-negotiable and must be protected at all costs. He has urged the media, civil society, and the international community to amplify the voices of victims and ensure sustained pressure for justice and reform. As the situation continues to deteriorate, it is imperative that collective action is taken to address the alarming spike in human rights violations in Nigeria and work towards a more just and peaceful society.
