Abuja: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Thursday urged the Federal Government to decisively tackle the rising spate of hate speech and divisive rhetoric in the country. Dr Tony Ojukwu, SAN, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, made the call while addressing a news conference in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the NHRC emphasized the importance of addressing these issues as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 General Elections. The commission highlighted its responsibility to intervene whenever public discourse threatens peaceful coexistence, human dignity, equality, peace, and the enjoyment of fundamental rights and freedoms. Dr Ojukwu expressed concerns over recent statements attributed to public figures such as Sheikh Sani Jingir and Sen. Francis Fadahunsi, underlining the need for responsible freedom of expression.
While acknowledging freedom of expression as a fundamental human right, Dr Ojukwu stressed that it carries responsibilities and should not be used to incite violence, promote hatred, dehumanize others, or provoke hostility against individuals or communities. He clarified that the NHRC’s intervention is not targeted at any political party, religious group, ethnic community, or individual. Instead, it aims to protect the dignity and equal worth of every person and to preserve conditions necessary for peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections.
Dr Ojukwu urged every Nigerian to play their role in fostering unity. He called on political leaders to compete based on ideas, programs, competence, and service records rather than sowing hatred or division. He encouraged religious and traditional leaders to utilize their platforms for building bridges, promoting tolerance, and protecting the dignity of every Nigerian. Additionally, he advised the media to inform the public responsibly without amplifying hatred or incitement.
To support these efforts, the NHRC has established a situation room with a toll-free line, 6472, for the public to provide information related to hate speech and divisive rhetoric.