The National Human Rights Commission
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has again raised fresh concerns over Nigeria’s worsening human rights situation, revealing that it received 326,113 complaints across the country in June 2026, with violations of the right to life emerging as the most prevalent abuse.
Presenting the commission’s June 2026 monthly human rights situation dashboard in Abuja yesterday, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC said the staggering number of complaints underscores the urgent need for stronger government action to protect citizens and hold perpetrators accountable.
According to the commission, its Human Rights Observatory, which tracks incidents of violations nationwide, recorded widespread abuses during the month, with armed violence remaining the dominant pattern.
The Commission also expressed grave concern over the continued rise in sexual violence against children, describing the trend as alarming and calling for immediate, coordinated interventions to protect minors.
“The right to life was the most frequently violated right, while the Observatory recorded multiple cases of sexual violence against children. This sustained pattern of violence demands urgent action,” the Commission stated.
The NHRC noted that, beyond documenting complaints, the monthly dashboard serves as an accountability mechanism to identify emerging human rights threats and guide policy responses.
The commission also reflected on the 12-day visit to Nigeria by the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Prof. Nazila Ghanea, who visited Abuja, Plateau and Kano states between June 8 and 19.
According to the NHRC, the UN expert observed that persistent violence, kidnappings, mass displacement and attacks on communities continue to undermine fundamental rights and worsen religious tensions across the country.
The Special Rapporteur reportedly found that insecurity dominated discussions with religious leaders, civil society groups and victims during her visit. Her final report on Nigeria is expected before the United Nations Human Rights Council in March 2027.
