The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has unveiled its February 2025 Human Rights Situation Dashboard, documenting human rights violations across Nigeria. The report was presented by Mr. Hillary Ogbona, Special Advisor on Human Rights to the NHRC Executive Secretary, during a media briefing at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
The event had in attendance representatives from the US Embassy Delegation and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), underscoring the importance of collaboration between the Commission and international partners.
Earlier, the NHRC Executive Secretary welcomed guests, including the delegation from the American University and the United Kingdom, before presenting the Commission’s observations on the nation’s human rights situation.
He revealed that the Commission received a total of 305,000 complaints in February 2025, reflecting the persistent human rights challenges faced by Nigerians.
“Unfortunately, human rights violations involving state actors continue to top the list a trend that remains deeply concerning. The use of power must always align with human rights standards, and any abuse must be swiftly addressed through appropriate channels,” the Executive Secretary said.
He also highlighted the growing violations of economic, social, and cultural rights, which include lack of access to education, healthcare, and housing, urging the government to adopt policies that promote equitable access to these basic necessities.
The Executive Secretary further noted recent legislation with significant human rights implications, including the Prohibition of Secret Cults and Similar Activities Law, 2025 and the Adamawa Homeland Security Law, 2025, which prescribe severe penalties including the death penalty for crimes such as kidnapping and terrorism.
While acknowledging the need for strong measures to combat crime, he emphasized that justice must be administered in line with international human rights standards.
Mr. Hillary Ogbona, in his presentation, highlighted the following:
Persistent banditry and abduction in the Northwest and North Central regions.
Revival of communal and inter-communal violence in several states.
Increase in cult-related killings.
Continued extrajudicial killings by law enforcement agencies.
Rising reports of rape and sexual violence, which had been previously underreported.
Boko Haram-related attacks in the Northeast.
He attributed the increase in rape cases to growing public confidence in the Commission’s reporting mechanisms.
Statistical Overview
205,364 human rights complaints were received across 88 receiving points a 5% increase from January 2025.
The North Central region recorded the highest number of complaints, followed by the North East, South East, and South South regions.
Law enforcement-related violations topped the list, with over 50,000 complaints.
Violations related to freedom of religion and economic, social, and cultural rights were also significant.
The report documented several tragic incidents in February, including:
The Anambra State boat collision, which resulted in multiple deaths.
Several communal clashes and attacks across different states.
The NHRC reiterated its commitment to promoting, protecting, and enforcing human rights for all Nigerians. The Commission called on the government, civil society, and international partners to work together towards building a more just, equitable, and rights-respecting society.
