NHRC Raises the Alarm Over Insecurity, Hate Speech Ahead of 2027 Polls
• Commission records 297,943 complaints in August, demands probe into Benue, Niger killings Michael Olugbode in Abuja National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised concerns over the worsening human rights
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a warning about the increasing human rights issues linked to insecurity, hate speech, and political violence as Nigeria heads towards the 2027 general elections. The NHRC reported receiving 297,943 complaints nationwide in August 2026, which they consider a significant indicator of the country's human rights scenario.
The commission's Executive Secretary, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, highlighted that insecurity was the most prominent human rights issue during that month, with recurrent attacks on rural communities in Benue and Niger states, despite ongoing security efforts. He emphasized the need for thorough and transparent investigations into the reported killings and urged authorities to ensure swift and effective prosecution of the perpetrators.
Ojukwu also commended several successful security interventions during the month, such as the rescue of 308 Nigerians abducted in Niger and Kwara states, and the release of several individuals held captive in Benue State. He emphasized that such coordinated responses should become regular rather than isolated incidents, and stressed that intelligence, political will, and inter-agency collaboration are crucial in achieving such outcomes.
In addition to physical insecurity, the NHRC expressed concern over the rise in inflammatory rhetoric and political violence associated with the upcoming 2027 elections. The commission condemned statements by Sheikh Sani Jingir and Senator Francis Fadahunsi as hate speech and calls for violence. They urged for the investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
Ojukwu stressed that political participation is closely connected to a range of fundamental rights and that the election season necessitates heightened vigilance to ensure that political actors adhere to the rules. The NHRC also commented on the Foreign Aid Bill before the National Assembly, voicing concerns about potential negative impacts on the civic space and the independence of organizations engaged in human rights work.
They urged the National Assembly to engage stakeholders on issues related to freedom of association, freedom of expression, and the operational independence of civil society organizations.
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