The National Human Rights Commission received 338,810 petitions in September, a 14 per cent increase of 40,867 complaints from the 297,943 recorded in August, Executive Secretary Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, said on Wednesday in Abuja.
Most of the petitions came from the North-Central zone, particularly Benue, Plateau and Niger states. Ojukwu said the rise underscores the scale of rights violations and the pressure on the Commission and other institutions to investigate thoroughly, secure remedies for victims and prevent recurrence.
He described the human rights situation in September as particularly challenging for the rights to life, personal liberty, human dignity and security, especially for vulnerable groups. Insecurity remained a major driver, with continued reports of killings, kidnappings and attacks on communities.
The Commission noted ongoing mass abductions in Niger State, where families and communities have expressed anguish over the prolonged captivity of relatives. Ojukwu called on security agencies to intensify efforts to protect communities, rescue abducted persons and bring perpetrators to justice.
Special Human Rights Adviser Hillary Ogbonna provided a breakdown of the dashboard figures: 208 killings by non-state actors and 210 kidnappings were recorded in the month. The Commission also visited 113 detention centres nationwide and issued 56 summonses to the police over alleged rights abuses.
Ojukwu expressed particular concern about the vulnerability of women and children to sexual and gender-based violence, exploitation, abuse and discrimination. He said these violations require stronger preventive measures, survivor-centred responses, effective investigations and better access to justice.
He welcomed the national stakeholders’ engagement held in September to review the Child Rights Act 2003, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s child-protection framework. He urged authorities to turn the reform process into stronger institutions, adequate resources and practical safeguards for children, especially those in underserved communities.
The Commission, Ojukwu said, remains focused on improving monitoring, investigations and complaint resolution so that its findings can shape policy and institutional reform. He also called for increased funding to enable the body to meet its responsibilities.
A story of courage, wonder, and the transformative power of self-belief; perfect for readers aged 10+ who love adventure. To place order: +234 806 130 3237 | +234 803 582 0870 OR Tap the link to grab a copy:https://www.zeekapublish.com/product/the-magical-life-of-anna
