Nigeria’s 2024 Human Rights Crisis: Insecurity, Rights Violations, And Calls For Reform

In 2024, Nigeria faced alarming levels of insecurity and human rights violations, with over 526 people killed and 949 kidnapped in violent attacks nationwide, according to the Nigeria 2024 Annual Human Rights Report. These figures underscore the escalating security challenges in the country, exacerbated by kidnapping, banditry, and communal clashes.

Human Rights Day Report Highlights
Launched in Abuja on December 10 to mark Human Rights Day, the report by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) sheds light on critical violations, including extrajudicial killings, police brutality, and unlawful detentions, despite constitutional and international safeguards.

Systemic Issues in Law Enforcement
PLAC’s Executive Director, Clement Nwankwo, highlighted systemic flaws within security agencies, citing abuse of power, harassment, extortion, and even sexual violence by officials. These violations have deepened citizens’ mistrust in law enforcement and amplified the culture of impunity.

“Victims of human rights abuse often face delays in justice and a lack of transparency in investigations,” the report stated. “This systemic failure undermines Nigeria’s rule of law and fosters frustration among citizens.”

Cybercrimes Act Amendment
One positive development in 2024 was the amendment of Section 24 of the Cybercrimes Act, narrowing the definition of cyberstalking. This reform aims to reduce the misuse of the law to silence journalists and individuals critical of the government. Despite this progress, arbitrary arrests and detentions over alleged defamatory publications persisted.

Socio-Economic Challenges
Economic hardships, fueled by rising petroleum prices and a depreciating naira, significantly impacted Nigerians’ socio-economic rights. Inflation surged, driving up the cost of living and sparking widespread #EndBadGovernance protests in August. These demonstrations highlighted citizens’ discontent with worsening economic conditions.

Vulnerable Groups: Children and Gender-Based Violence
The report also spotlighted violations against vulnerable groups, including children and women. Child trafficking, forced labor, and abduction continue to rob children of safety and dignity. Gender-based violence (GBV) remains prevalent, with documented cases ranging from domestic abuse to targeted killings.

“In 2024, 28 cases of trafficking and sexual violence were recorded, though many incidents go unreported,” the report noted, calling for urgent government action.

Recommendations for Policy Reforms
The report urges the government to adopt comprehensive policies addressing poverty alleviation, job creation, and educational opportunities while tackling inflation. Ensuring full implementation of the Child Rights Act and Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act across all states is critical to safeguarding vulnerable groups.

On security, PLAC advocates for strategic reforms to address systemic flaws in law enforcement, enhance accountability, and rebuild trust between citizens and the authorities.

Conclusion
The 2024 Nigeria Human Rights Report paints a sobering picture of a nation grappling with widespread rights violations and economic challenges. As citizens continue to demand accountability and justice, urgent action by the government is essential to protect lives, restore trust, and promote socio-economic rights.