The National Human Rights Commission has reported receiving a total of 371,622 complaints of human rights violations across Nigeria in September 2025, with the North-Central region accounting for the highest number of cases.
The Executive Secretary of the commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), disclosed this on Monday in Abuja during the presentation of the NHRC’s September 2025 Dashboard and Human Rights Observatory Report.
Ojukwu described the monthly dashboard as “a mirror into the nation’s conscience,” adding that it offers insight into the state of human rights beyond mere statistics.
“These are not just figures or trends, but reflections of lost lives and denied liberties,” he said.
“In September, we received 371,622 complaints ranging from denial of access to justice, unlawful arrests, domestic and sexual violence, torture, and discrimination.”
He noted that the commission’s state offices have been working tirelessly to investigate, mediate, and where necessary, refer cases for further action.
According to the report, the North-Central zone recorded the highest number of complaints, largely linked to banditry, kidnapping, and road accidents.
The North-West and North-East followed closely with cases involving terror attacks, abductions, and sexual violence.
Ojukwu added that southern states also recorded widespread violations, including domestic abuse, police brutality, mob actions, and fatal road crashes.
“Violations of the right to life remain the most reported, reflecting the toll of insecurity and preventable violence in the country,” he said.
He identified Niger, Kwara, Plateau, Kogi, and Borno States as the most affected in September, noting that the findings highlight “persistent and evolving threats to human rights across all six geopolitical zones.”
Speaking on the recent concerns about religiously motivated violence, Ojukwu said the commission is committed to leading discussions on religious genocide and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We are ready to lead in this conversation, and we call on government, non-state actors, and international partners to join us,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and the Royal Norwegian Government for their continued support through the Tripartite Partnership Programme.
Presenting the detailed breakdown of the report, Mr. Hilary Ogbonna, Senior Human Rights Adviser and Project Coordinator, said the North-Central region accounted for 153,967 complaints, followed by North-West (73,167), North-East (69,973), South-East (46,409), South-South (14,144), and South-West (13,962).
Ogbonna lamented the rise in child rights violations, especially child labour and abandonment.
“Child labour has become a disturbing trend. While the economic situation may contribute, it remains illegal and against both national and international human rights laws,” he stressed.
He further revealed that the commission documented 336 killings, 361 kidnappings, and 144 deaths by accidents within the month.
He also warned about the emergence of a new terror group known as ‘Wulowulo’ in Nasarawa State, urging security agencies to take immediate action to prevent it from becoming a major threat.
“If people cannot practice their religion freely and in dignity, then we are losing a vital part of our humanity,” he added.
During the reporting period, the NHRC completed investigations into 6,819 cases, conducted 144 visits to police stations, detention centres, and correctional facilities, and issued 79 summons to the Nigeria Police Force.
The commission also visited military formations three times to monitor compliance with human rights standards.
Ojukwu reaffirmed the NHRC’s commitment to protecting the rights of all Nigerians and ensuring accountability for violations.
“Our mission remains to safeguard human dignity, no matter how difficult the circumstances,” he concluded.
