NHRC reports rising rights complaints, urges probe of Middle Belt violence

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reported an increase in human rights violation complaints in Nigeria, recording 261,483 cases in April 2025 alone.

Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the NHRC, revealed the figures on Friday, noting that killings and kidnappings were the most common violations during the period.

Ojukwu expressed concern over the surge in abuses following violent attacks in Plateau and Benue states, which contributed significantly to the rising numbers.

“Hundreds of Nigerians have lost their lives and others have been injured due to attacks across the country’s Middle Belt region,” he said.

The NHRC executive secretary called on the federal government, state authorities, and relevant agencies to conduct thorough investigations and hold perpetrators accountable, especially in Plateau, Benue, and other affected states.

“In April 2025, there were 261,483 complaints. Why this number is significant: It represents only the visible portion of a much deeper situation.

“The killings in Plateau and Benue states, as well as the resurgence of Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks in Borno, have left hundreds of citizens injured and dead.

“The crisis in the Middle Belt is not new but has continued for decades without a solution.

“We call for an independent, impartial, prompt investigation of all the cases stated.

“Support services for all victims. Accountability for all perpetrators, and sustained investment in all peacebuilding.

“The commission stated that the right to life is non-negotiable,” Ojukwu added.

The NHRC also noted that complaints increased by 20 percent compared to the previous month, with 35 percent of cases reported from the Middle Belt region.

Data from the commission showed that Benue, Plateau, and Borno states accounted for 60 percent of killings in Nigeria in April 2025.