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Democracy Day: NHRC Calls for Enhanced Human Rights Protection
Democracy Day: NHRC Calls for Enhanced Human Rights Protection
By:Michael Mike
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has joined millions of Nigerians in commemorating the 2025 Democracy Day, a day set aside to honour those who fought for democratic governance in the country.
In a statement to commemorate the day, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr Tony Ojukwu, said: “As we mark 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, we reflect on our journey and reaffirm our commitment to justice, equality, peace, and human dignity” .
He said the NHRC has made significant strides in advancing democracy, including mobilizing voters for elections and promoting citizen participation.
According to him, the Commission has also continued to monitor elections to ensure compliance with human rights standards, working tirelessly to promote free, fair, and credible polls.
He added that prior to the 2023 general election, the Commission held townhalls for presidential and gubernatorial candidates, ensuring they mainstream human rights in governance when elected into power. This initiative underscored the Commission’s commitment to holding leaders accountable for human rights protection he emohasized. We intend to continue this trend, engaging with elected officials and aspirants to prioritize human rights in their governance he added.
He further pointed out that “in the NHRC we recognize the intrinsic link between human rights and democracy, where the protection of fundamental rights is essential for sustainable development”. He added, “as we celebrate our democratic achievements, we honor the heroes of democracy who have tirelessly worked towards a Nigeria where governance will be accountable, rights are protected, and every citizen has the opportunity to live in peace and dignity.
“However, we note with concern the rising insecurity and economic hardship threatening the dignity and rights of many Nigerians. The Commission urges government at all levels to prioritize the protection of human rights and human lives, ensure justice for victims, and address the root causes of violence, injustice and economic hardship.
“We remain committed to promoting, protecting, and enforcing human rights across the country. We call on all Nigerians to partner with us in safeguarding democratic ideals that bind us together. Together, we can give real meaning to democracy, ensure hope, justice, and opportunity for all.”
Remembering the heroes of democracy and the justice of June 12 democracy day, the Executive Secretary advised on the justice of recognizing all the heroes of June 12 together, politicians and public servants alike. Such posture of government helps to ensure democracy.
He noted that: “If June 12, 1993 Presidential elections were adjudged as free and fair and the winners of the elections have been recognised, both those alive and posthumously, then there is justice to recognise that the election itself was conducted by human beings and not spirits.
“The arrowheads of the June 12, 1993 presidential election in the National Electoral Commission (NEC) should be recognised and given appropriate national honours and immortalised in public institutions as part of the justice of June 12 and foundation for democracy in Nigeria. Justice delayed is Justice denied.”
Democracy Day: NHRC Calls for Enhanced Human Rights Protection
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
By: Zagazola Makama
An inspection team from the ECOWAS Force Headquarters and Army Headquarters has assessed the operational readiness of Nigeria’s ECOWAS standby force at Naquora Barracks in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the team, led by Brig.-Gen. Sheikh Sulaiman Massaquoi, visited the barracks on Nov. 7, 2026, to evaluate the troops’ preparedness for possible deployment.
The team received briefings on troop readiness, training and administrative matters, and witnessed demonstrations on roadblock operations and crowd dispersal.
Massaquoi commended the troops for their performance and urged them to sustain high standards of professionalism, discipline and physical fitness.
The inspection visit ended without any incident.
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Gunshot-Wounded Victim in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have foiled a suspected kidnapping attempt and rescued a gunshot-wounded victim along the Rafin Sanyi axis in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops of Sector 6 OPEP, deployed at Sopp, responded to a distress report at about 9:40 p.m. on Nov. 6, 2026, after suspected kidnappers blocked the road in the area.
The swift intervention of the troops reportedly forced the criminals to flee before they could carry out their operation.
The troops subsequently combed the area and rescued one occupant of a Sharon vehicle who had sustained a gunshot wound.
The victim was evacuated to the Nigerian Army Medical Outpost at Tigi, where he received first aid treatment.
Troops have continued to dominate the general area through fighting patrols to prevent the criminals from regrouping and forestall further attacks.
Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Gunshot-Wounded Victim in Plateau
Troops Raid Jos Hotel, Arrest Five Suspects Over Phone Snatching, Recover 26 Phones
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have raided a hotel along Baring Road in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, arresting five suspected criminals and recovering 26 mobile phones and other items.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops of Sector 1 OPEP, while on patrol, responded to a report of phone snatching at about 9:00 p.m. on Nov. 6, 2026.
Following the incident, the stolen phone was reportedly tracked to Prime House Hotel within the area, prompting the troops to conduct a raid on the facility.
The operation led to the arrest of five suspects identified as Tahir Suleiman, 25; Muhammed Ahmed, 25; Muhammed Labaran Haruna, 27; Yahya Yunusa, 20; and Aisha Mohammad, 22.
The suspects were reportedly found in possession of the tracked phone, while a further search led to the recovery of 26 mobile phones, 27 pouches, three MP devices, two earpods, an HP laptop, a knife and four power banks.
The vehicle belonging to the suspects was also towed to the headquarters of Sector 1 for a comprehensive search.
The suspects and recovered exhibits remain in custody for further investigation and necessary action.
Troops Raid Jos Hotel, Arrest Five Suspects Over Phone Snatching, Recover 26 Phones
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
Troops Arrest Two Suspected Burglars Attempting to Steal Chickens in Plateau
Troops Arrest Herder Over Alleged Destruction of Farmland in Benue
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