News
Nigeria’s Human Rights Violations Reporting Receives Global Accolade
Nigeria’s Human Rights Violations Reporting Receives Global Accolade
By: Michael Mike
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu has said Nigeria’s human rights violations reporting has received global commendation.
Ojukwu made this known during the 4th edition of the monthly dashboard on human rights held at the Commission’s headquarters at the weekend, where he emphasized Nigeria’s significant role in the global discourse on human rights.
The Executive Secretary, who just arrived from Geneva, Switzerland after the just concluded Annual General Meeting of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) said: “All eyes and ears were on Nigeria when we were sharing our experiences.”
Ojukwu, while highlighting the attention drawn by the Commission’s reports, said the Commission has been vocal on violations of human rights issues, adding that: “Everyone is impressed with the report emanating from the dashboard and the international community awaits the monthly report that we make public”
Ojukwu extended gratitude to the media for their pivotal role in disseminating these reports to the public. He emphasized that the dashboard serves not only to illustrate the human rights situation but also as a gauge of progress towards realizing the rights of all individuals in Nigeria.
However, in the presentation of the April dashboard, Mr. Hillary Ogbonna, Senior Human Rights Adviser to the Executive Secretary, highlighted a concerning rise in human rights violation recorded in April. He cited instances of mass killings, attacks on press freedom and unlawful detention of journalists, violence against children, cultism and the impact of economic reforms on the enjoyment of human rights.
The monthly dashboard, Ogbonna emphasized is integral to the Commission’s mandate of real-time monitoring, investigation, and reporting on human rights nationwide.
Also speaking at the event was the Project Officer Rule of Law on Human Rights with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), Nkechi Enubiaka, who said “as we continue our journey towards a just and equitable Nigeria, we remain grateful for the invaluable partnership with the NHRC and look forward to further strengthening of our collaboration for the advancement of human rights and sustainable development.”
On her part, Political and Development Adviser of the Royal Norwegian Embassy,
Queen Esther Iroanusi,, urged the Commission to not only document violations but also address the challenges encountered in fulfilling their mandate.
Nigeria’s Human Rights Violations Reporting Receives Global Accolade
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
Lent and Ramadan Tribute: To the Jagaban of Burgu and the Jagoran Arewa
IPCR Sees Lent, Ramadan Overlap as Call for National Healing
Police neutralise two suspected kidnappers, recover rifle in Akwa Ibom
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions4 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News10 months agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News2 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
Opinions4 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
ACADEMICS2 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns2 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Opinions2 years agoTinubu,Shettima: The epidemic of economic, insecurity in Nigeria
