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NHRC Will Henceforth Ensure Bills Violating Human Rights Do Not Get Passed
NHRC Will Henceforth Ensure Bills Violating Human Rights Do Not Get Passed
By: Michael Mike
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has said it would henceforth work to ensure that bills that may likely violate the human rights of the citizens do not get passed into law.
Addressing the media on activities lined up by commission to mark the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the Executive Secretary of NHRC, Chief Tony Ojukwu said the commission is organising Legislative Forum on Human Rights, where discussions would be he’s on the role of Human Rights Committees in advancing human rights.
Ojukwu said “the situation in Nigeria regarding human rights is complex, despite the country’s commitment to international treaties and its efforts in enacting laws to protect human rights.”
He decried that Nigeria faces significant challenges including poverty, inequality, discrimination, insecurity, and weak law enforcement leading to illegal arrests, prolonged detentions, and extrajudicial killings.”
He noted that: “The Forum which will be attended by leaders in the National and State legislatures, senior policy makers, the judiciary, human rights and legal professionals, civil society organisations, international development partners and other stakeholders, will provide a vital platform for them to engage in meaningful discussions, increase awareness, and strengthen commitment to human rights principles within legislative bodies.”
He said “henceforth the NHRC would support legislature that protect human rights and would not support those that are otherwise.”
He said machinery would be put in place to ensure that bills that contravene human rights do not get passed into law.
Ojukwu disclosed that the NHRC will join other institutions to mark the 16 Days of Activism on Gender Based Violence, adding that “in all our 36 state offices and the FCT, the NHRC will embark on advocacy and public sensitisations with government, civil society, traditional and religious authorities and the media to call attention and action on stemming the tide on sexual and gender-based violence.”
Other activities lined up for the week, include: Correctional Centre Audit and Police Station Visitation, Human Rights Quiz Competition, Human Rights Film Festival, A High-Level Forum on Business and Human Rights, Civil Society Forum,
Civil-Military Forum on Human Rights, Human Rights Walk and Statements, Human Rights Fiesta, and Human Rights Dinner and Award.
NHRC Will Henceforth Ensure Bills Violating Human Rights Do Not Get Passed
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
By: Michael Mike
As Christians begin Lent and Muslims commence Ramadan, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has urged Nigerians to use the rare overlap of the two sacred seasons to strengthen unity and reject divisive tendencies.
In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the institute described the simultaneous observance as more than a calendar coincidence, calling it a powerful symbol of shared values and collective responsibility in a nation grappling with insecurity and social strain.
IPCR said both seasons—marked by fasting, prayer and reflection—offer an opportunity for citizens to look beyond religious differences and recommit to peaceful coexistence. It stressed that the moral lessons of compassion, self-restraint and generosity embedded in Lent and Ramadan should translate into everyday interactions among Nigerians.
The institute warned against extremist narratives that distort religious teachings for narrow interests, noting that such interpretations undermine national stability. Instead, it encouraged faith leaders and communities to amplify messages that promote tolerance, dialogue and mutual respect.
According to the institute, true spirituality is measured not only by acts of worship but also by how individuals treat neighbours of different beliefs. It added that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength capable of fostering resilience rather than division.
“With both faiths engaged in solemn reflection at the same time, Nigerians are presented with a timely reminder that we share a common humanity and destiny,” the statement noted, urging citizens to work together toward a more peaceful and prosperous society.
The Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, who signed the statement, extended goodwill wishes to Christians and Muslims, expressing hope that the sacred period would inspire reconciliation, understanding and renewed commitment to national unity.
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
An operative attached to a security unit in Niger State has died following an accidental discharge of a rifle at his duty post in Shiroro Local Government Area.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 10:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the operative, identified as Abubakar Iliya, 35, who was attached to a special hunters unit stationed at Galadiman-Kogo, reportedly fell from a sentry post.
During the fall, his cocked rifle disengaged and discharged, striking him in the abdomen and causing fatal injuries.
His remains were later evacuated by his unit for burial in accordance with customary rites.
Operative dies in accidental discharge in Niger
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
By: Zagazola Makama
A canoe conveying seven passengers capsized while in transit between Jata and Kami Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving several persons missing.
Sources said the incident occurred at about 7:00 p.m. on Feb. 16 when the canoe, carrying six females and one male passenger, overturned during the journey.
The passengers were identified as Mustapher Yakubu; Sahura Yakubu and her child; Zarifa Yakubu; Mommy Yakubu; Lizatu Yakubu; Zaratu Yusuf; and Sumaiya Ibrahim, all from Jata/Bmagara via Kami Village.
Rescue teams, including police and local divers, were immediately mobilised to the scene. The boat driver and his conductor were rescued alive, while search efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining passengers.
Authorities said further updates would be provided as rescue operations continue.
Boat mishap leaves passengers missing in Niger
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Tragedy in Plateau: Carbon monoxide exposure claims 37 lives at Wase mining site
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