The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a stark warning that Nigerian children remain under threat despite existing laws, treaties, and pledges. Executive Secretary Tony Ojukwu, SAN, urged authorities and stakeholders to move beyond declarations and take concrete action to protect vulnerable children. He stressed that the country's future depends on the well-being of today's children, emphasizing that access to quality education and protection from abuse must become a national priority.
Rising Complaints of Rights Violations
The NHRC reported that its Women and Children Department continues to receive complaints involving violations of children's rights. Over the years, the department has handled cases ranging from child neglect and abuse to labour exploitation and forced marriages. The commission has intervened in several cases, facilitating the rescue of children from harmful situations and supporting efforts to reunite victims with their families. However, rights advocates argue that the recurring nature of these complaints points to deeper structural challenges requiring stronger enforcement and accountability mechanisms.
May 2026: A Devastating Month for Human Rights
Ojukwu described May 2026 as a “devastating month” for human rights in Nigeria, following a surge in killings, abductions, attacks on schools and worship centres, and alleged violations involving state actors. The NHRC received a total of 268,787 complaints during the month, with violations involving state actors remaining the most significant concern. The period was marked by incidents that “deeply challenged our collective commitment to human dignity and fundamental freedoms,” including the loss of civilian lives, abduction of children, attacks on worshippers, and casualties among security personnel.
Military Airstrike and Civilian Harm
Ojukwu cited a reported military airstrike in Tumfa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, where a civilian market was allegedly hit during an operation targeting terrorists. The NHRC is engaging with the Nigerian Air Force on the incident and has called for the adoption of the National Policy for the Protection of Civilians in Conflict. He urged a coordinated government approach to mitigating civilian harm, noting that the Air Force already has a Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan.
Attacks on Security Personnel and Schools
Ojukwu raised concerns over persistent attacks on security formations and the killing of military and law enforcement personnel, stressing that security agencies require adequate support to confront Nigeria’s complex security challenges. He also highlighted attacks on education, revealing that armed attackers invaded schools in Oyo State and abducted over 45 pupils and teachers, who remain in captivity. Additionally, more than 40 schoolchildren were targeted in another attack in Borno State. Ojukwu described the repeated assault on schools as a serious threat to children’s rights and national security.
Commendations and Call for Action
The commission commended security agencies for recent successes in neutralizing terrorists and rescuing abducted persons, while also appreciating civil society groups, humanitarian organizations, and the media for supporting human rights accountability. Ojukwu reaffirmed that human rights remain a fundamental entitlement and not a privilege, stressing the need for every Nigerian to live with dignity, freedom, and equality.
