Nigeria’s human rights situation worsened significantly in May 2026, with the National Human Rights Commission recording 268,787 complaints nationwide.
The Commission described the month as one of the darkest periods for human rights, citing widespread killings, kidnappings and attacks on vulnerable communities.
Presenting its May Human Rights Situation Dashboard on Tuesday in Abuja, Executive Secretary Dr. Tony Ojukwu warned of a growing humanitarian crisis.
According to the report, at least 390 people were killed while 202 others were abducted across the country during the month.
Children, worshippers, security personnel and residents of rural communities were among those most affected by the violence.
Ojukwu said the volume of violations recorded within a single month reflected serious weaknesses in the protection of fundamental rights.
He noted that civilians lost their lives in several attacks, while schoolchildren were kidnapped and places of worship came under assault.
The Commission expressed concern over increasing attacks on educational institutions, describing them as threats to children’s safety and learning.
In Oyo State, more than 45 pupils and teachers were reportedly abducted, with many still awaiting freedom.
The NHRC also cited the kidnapping of over 40 schoolchildren in Borno State, calling the incident a setback for school safety efforts.
Ojukwu said classrooms should remain safe spaces for learning rather than environments of fear and uncertainty.
The Commission further condemned attacks on religious communities, including an incident in Kwara State that left worshippers dead and others abducted.
It warned that targeting worshippers undermines freedom of religion and threatens peaceful coexistence within affected communities.
The NHRC also raised concerns over civilian casualties linked to military operations in conflict areas.
One such incident involved reports of a military airstrike that allegedly hit a civilian market in Zamfara State.
While acknowledging ongoing investigations, the Commission renewed calls for stronger measures to protect civilians during security operations.
The report also condemned attacks on military formations and the killing of security personnel across the country.
According to the Commission, security forces require improved support and resources to effectively tackle emerging threats.
Ojukwu stressed that the incidents represented violations of rights guaranteed under the Constitution and international human rights agreements.
These included the rights to life, dignity, liberty, education and freedom of worship.
Despite the challenges, the Commission commended security operations that led to the rescue of abducted victims and the neutralisation of terrorists.
It urged government institutions to strengthen civilian protection, improve accountability and invest more in school safety initiatives.
The NHRC also called for psychosocial support for victims and families affected by violence and insecurity.
Civil society groups, humanitarian organisations and the media were praised for promoting accountability and documenting abuses.
Ojukwu reaffirmed that human rights are fundamental entitlements and must be protected for every citizen without exception.
He urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure that Nigerians can live in dignity, freedom and equality.
