•National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria (NHRC)
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu (SAN), has urged the federal government to confront the deeper drivers of recurring violence poverty, inequality and hate speech warning that failure to address these root causes will sustain cycles of killings across the country.
Reacting to the latest wave of attacks in Jos, Plateau State, Ojukwu condemned the “senseless and brutal” killings, describing them as part of a troubling pattern seen in other hotspots including Benue, Kaduna and Zamfara states, reports The Guardian.
“We strongly condemn these killings and extend our condolences to the families of victims,” he said, adding that the right to life remains non-negotiable.
Beyond immediate security responses, the NHRC boss stressed that long-term prevention requires structural interventions.
“There is an urgent need to address underlying factors that fuel this violence, such as poverty, inequality and hate speech.
Without this, we risk a continuation of these tragic occurrences,” he said.
Ojukwu called on the federal government to take decisive steps to halt the attacks and ensure accountability, warning that impunity is emboldening perpetrators.
“Enough is enough. The government must act now to stop these atrocities and bring those responsible to justice. The silence is deafening,” he stated.
He also urged security agencies to intensify operations in affected communities, including the deployment of additional personnel to prevent further attacks and protect vulnerable populations.
The NHRC further demanded a thorough investigation and swift prosecution of suspects, noting that visible justice would serve as a deterrent.
On humanitarian response, Ojukwu emphasised the need for comprehensive support for victims and survivors, including compensation, medical care and protection for displaced persons.
While commending steps taken by the Plateau State government, he insisted that more coordinated action is required at both federal and state levels.
“The victims must not be forgotten. Justice must be served, and proactive measures must be taken to ensure that such tragedies do not recur,” he said.
In a statement by Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, director corporate affairs and external Linkages reiterated the Commission commitment to human rights advocacy, declaring: “No more bloodshed in this country.”
