NHRC warns politicians, religious leaders against hate speech ahead of 2027 elections

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has cautioned politicians, religious and traditional leaders, the media, and Nigerians against hate speech, threats, and divisive comments. NHRC Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu addressed the issue at a press conference in Abuja on Thursday. He explained that inflammatory statements could jeopardize human rights, peaceful coexistence, and democratic participation.

Ojukwu expressed concern over remarks made by certain public figures, including Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir and Senator Francis Fadahunsi, as such remarks may exacerbate divisions and heighten tensions. The NHRC boss emphasized that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it cannot be used as an excuse to incite violence, promote hatred, or dehumanize others.

Ojukwu clarified that the commission's action was not aimed at any specific political party, religious group, ethnic community, or individual. He stressed that the primary objective was to safeguard human dignity and promote a peaceful, credible, and inclusive electoral process. Unchecked hate speech, according to Ojukwu, could result in discrimination, intimidation, violence, and a decline in trust in democratic institutions.

He urged the government and relevant agencies to identify and address dangerous narratives through lawful means. The NHRC also called on political parties to enhance their systems for curbing and punishing inflammatory statements, urging politicians and candidates to exercise greater responsibility in their public comments. The commission appealed to religious, traditional, and community leaders to foster tolerance, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.

It further urged security agencies to act on credible cases of incitement, threats, and intimidation while adhering to due process and fundamental rights. The NHRC emphasized that the media should uphold professional and ethical standards, avoid giving harmful statements undue publicity without proper context and verification, and Nigerians should refrain from allowing political differences to escalate into hatred or violence.

The commission reiterated its commitment to monitoring developments, documenting human rights concerns, and engaging stakeholders throughout the electoral period, urging Nigerians to protect the country’s diversity, human dignity, and democratic process.