Editorial

Reversing Nigeria’s Eroding Human Rights

Published

2 years ago

December 15, 2023

On Sunday, December 10, a global commemoration marked the 75th anniversary of the seminal Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). This Declaration, formally adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris three years after the establishment of this universal body, stands as a monument to the promotion and preservation of human rights worldwide.
The UDHR came into existence, contextualised by the chilling aftermath of the Second World War, imbued with a vision to protect human dignity and prevent such atrocities from recurring. The 30 articles enshrining diverse aspects of social, political, economic, and cultural rights constitute the bedrock of human rights jurisprudence and logic.
Against the backdrop of the recently celebrated International Human Rights Day, the world finds itself at a crossroads. We celebrate a global mandate advocating for the respect of fundamental human rights whilst simultaneously confronting the grim reality of rights contravention in several parts of the world.
Particularly, the scrutiny intensifies for Nigeria, where reports of rights violations by both state and non-state actors have dramatically spiked. Despite 24 consecutive years of civil rule, the basic rights of millions of Nigerians remain shockingly elusive.
To better grasp the scale and alarming trend of these issues, it is essential to take a closer look at the everyday realities of Nigerian citizens. Amnesty International stated in their 2019/20 report that the Nigerian government had been found wanting in the respect for the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association. Malevolent actions of state authorities and various armed groups exhibit a gross disregard for the sanctity of human life – the most basic human right.
The Nigerian government’s stance towards human rights advocacy can, at best, be described as passive – a term infernally far from the active participation required to actualise change. As argued by some human rights scholars, a government’s duty is not just to avoid violating human rights, but to actively protect and champion them, a role grossly neglected by the Nigerian government. Meanwhile, non-state actors like Boko Haram, Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), and other armed groups commit acts of violence with disturbing audacity, revealing their blatant disregard for human rights.
However, simply stating the problem or resorting to politically-charged rhetoric does not facilitate practical change. It is instrumental to understand that respect for human rights is fundamentally imperative for a state’s stability and prosperity; it is not just an abstract moral cause. The protection of individual human rights is inextricably linked with national development. It becomes unmistakably evident that nations that uphold human rights tend to be more politically stable, economically prosperous, and display a more significant degree of societal harmony.
Since its independence in 1960, Nigeria has continuously experienced tension, instability, and conflict, invariably leading to multifaceted human rights abuses. These violations, which include the killing of civilians by military airstrikes, rights infringements by the police, and assaults on persons and property by criminals, underscore the pervading dissonance.
In October 2020, the world watched in real-time as peaceful #EndSARS protesters met with live ammunition, further corroborating reports of widespread rights abuses by Nigerian security forces. The assault on persons and property by criminals represents another facet of concern.
Nigeria has a high prevalence of violent crime, from kidnapping to armed robbery, and has grappled with an escalating insurgency for over a decade. The failings of security agencies to curb these crimes reflect a tacit denial of the basic right to security for the Nigerian citizen.
In recent years, there has been an alarming upsurge in extrajudicial practices and killings within the Nigeria Police Force.
According to a report by the Open Society Initiative, these measures have included tactics as severe as illicit killings, sexual assault, and extortion. Notably, these incidents have transpired within over 400 police stations throughout the country. It uncovers the insidious paradox of an institution, charged with the responsibility of preserving civil liberties, being found guilty of breaching them.
While governments are traditionally perceived as the defenders of rights and enforcers of laws, a disconcerting development reveals a different narrative. The instances of frequent disobedience of court orders, unlawful detention, demolition of property without due process, denial of fundamental access to education, and brazen abuse of religious rights present a glaring paradox.
Having examined assorted human rights abuses, it is innocuous to say that citizens’ enjoyment of basic rights in Nigeria is far from ideal. Nigeria’s current position, as ranked by the World Report 2020, confirms that the country’s human rights problem is alarming. Regrettably, Human Rights Watch places the nation at 128th position out of 162 countries.
Reversing this trend will necessitate a profound and robust citizens’ commitment, requiring them to use every democratic tool at their disposal to challenge these flagrant violations and hold their governments accountable. Without this capitulation to those principles on which democracies stand, it can be perilously easy for the state itself to become the predator on the rights it is meant to protect.
The protection of human rights should not be perceived as a luxury but a necessity. Like a seed, once sown and nurtured, it yields benefits for society at large. The Nigerian state apparatus, civil society and international community must pull together in stemming this tide of abhorrent human rights violations. The chronicles of human rights infringements in our country are distressingly long and seemingly entrenched, but it is never too late for a reversal. While the intervention required is comprehensive, the responsibility is collective.
World Human Rights Day must be more than an annual ritual of reflection— it must serve as a wake-up call to the ever-pertinent cries for justice, respect and proper observance of human rights. The Nigerian example serves as a stark reminder to the world about where inadvertence can lead societies. It is nevertheless a clarion call that the respect of human rights should be a universally adopted, diligently pursued cause, without which the peace and prosperity we so aspire become a far and duplicitous dream.
This is why we align with the theme of this year’s Human Rights Day: “Freedom, Equality and Justice for All”. Sadly, this theme remains yet an unfulfilled declaration in Nigeria’s context. Human rights, rather than being upheld, appear under assault, giving a morose picture of the reality amidst a globally acclaimed commitment to fundamental rights. It is high time the Nigerian government and the international community undertook urgent steps to redress these infractions and ensure just conditions for all citizens. This is the only way to reverse Nigeria’s eroding human rights record.

Editorial

Charge Before New Rivers Council Helmsmen

Published

6 days ago

September 29, 2025

The Tide

On the 30th of August, Rivers people trooped out to participate in local government elections conducted across the state. These elections, which produced new chairmen and councillors for the 23 local government areas (LGAs), were organised by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The exercise has ushered in a new crop of grassroots leaders whose shoulders now bear the responsibility of steering the affairs of their respective councils. With the polls concluded and winners duly announced, the time has come for the newly elected officials to roll up their sleeves and begin the hard work of governance.

According to the results declared by RSIEC, the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a dominant lead, winning chairmanship seats in 20 of the 23 local government councils, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) clinched the remaining three. This outcome not only reflects the current political dynamics in the state but also places a significant weight of expectation on the shoulders of the APC-led councils to justify the confidence reposed in them by the electorate. It is imperative that political rhetoric now gives way to tangible development, especially at the grassroots level where government is felt most directly.

Following the elections, the successful chairmen were officially sworn into office by the former Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas. The solemn ceremony marked a transition from campaign promises to the reality of public service. With their inauguration complete, the time for celebration has ended; the time for delivery has commenced. The electorate now awaits meaningful action that reflects the hopes and aspirations of the voting public.

As helmsmen of their various LGAs, these leaders must quickly settle down to work. Their constituents expect them to provide direction, formulate policies, and execute programmes that will uplift communities long neglected. The local government tier is closest to the people and, as such, must rise above politicking to meet the everyday needs of the citizenry. It is not enough to occupy office; they must make their impact visibly and positively felt across their domains.

The Supreme Court ruling mandating direct allocation of funds to local governments—although not yet fully implemented—is a welcome development that underscores the autonomy of the third tier of government. Once this is operationalised, the excuses often cited for underperformance will no longer hold water. With funds directly accessed from the Federation Account, council administrations will be better empowered to meet the developmental needs of their localities, if only they manage resources judiciously and prioritise the right projects.

The onus is now on the chairmen to contribute meaningfully to the broader development of Rivers State. The state government cannot and should not be expected to do everything. Local government councils have defined responsibilities—ranging from rural infrastructure, primary healthcare, and basic education to waste management and local security—that must be adequately addressed. It is high time they stopped passing the buck and started acting as the elected leaders they are.

We extend our congratulations to all who emerged victorious in the elections. However, with this victory comes great responsibility. It is no longer about party affiliations or electoral campaigns; it is about governance. The chairmen must launch people-centred projects that will genuinely improve the lives of the rural populace—projects in water supply, road maintenance, school renovation, and youth empowerment, among others. Let their tenure be remembered for its impact, not its slogans.

Central to their mandate should be the welfare of workers. Council employees form the engine room of local governance, and their morale significantly affects service delivery. The new chairmen must ensure regular payment of salaries, staff training, and a conducive working environment. Neglecting this vital aspect will only hinder whatever grand plans they may have for their LGAs.

It is also essential to institute a robust peer review mechanism. The new LG officials should not operate in isolation; rather, they should learn from one another, share ideas, and compete constructively in a bid to outperform each other in service delivery. Healthy competition among council areas will drive innovation and foster accelerated development. Such a system will also help the public identify high-performing councils for emulation.

Given the typically short tenure of council administrations, it is crucial that they focus on projects that are realistic and impactful. Time and resources should not be wasted on white elephant ventures that are neither sustainable nor beneficial to the people. Instead, chairmen should pursue programmes that match their timelines and address immediate community needs.

Peace and security must remain a cardinal objective for all council steersmen. Regardless of who facilitated their election or what political loyalties they hold, they must ensure peace reigns in their areas. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of tension and distrust. These leaders must work closely with traditional rulers, youth groups, and civil society organisations to maintain law and order.

A critical understanding must also prevail—that chairmen are leaders of the people, not just leaders of political parties. They must conduct themselves as impartial administrators serving all constituents, irrespective of political affiliations. Additionally, they must work harmoniously with the state governor, who remains the leader of the state. Petty rivalries and political infighting serve no purpose in the development agenda.

Now that the elections are over and governance has begun, it is essential for these chairmen and councillors to adopt an inclusive approach. They must carry everyone along—party members and opposition alike—in their development plans. Creating division or playing favourites will only fracture communities and stall progress. Leadership at the grassroots demands fairness, equity, and a listening ear.

Rivers people have played their part by coming out to vote. The baton has now been passed to the new council helmsmen. They must seize the opportunity to leave lasting legacies in their communities. History will not judge them by the number of rallies they held or the speeches they gave, but by the quality of life they brought to their people. Let them not squander this moment.

Editorial

No To Political Office Holders’ Salary Hike

Published

2 weeks ago

September 22, 2025

The Tide

Nigeria’s Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has unveiled a gratuitous proposal to increase the salaries of political and public office holders in the country. This plan seeks to fatten the pay packets of the president, vice-president, governors, deputy governors, and members of the National and State Assemblies. At a time when the nation is struggling to steady its economy, the suggestion that political leaders should be rewarded with more money is not only misplaced but insulting to the sensibilities of the ordinary Nigerian.

What makes the proposal even more opprobrious is the dire economic condition under which citizens currently live. The cost of living crisis has worsened, inflation has eroded the purchasing power of workers, and the naira continues to tumble against foreign currencies. The majority of Nigerians are living hand to mouth, with many unable to afford basic foodstuffs, medical care, and education. Against this backdrop, political office holders, who already enjoy obscene allowances, perks, and privileges, should not even contemplate a salary increase.

It is, therefore, not surprising that the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has stepped in to challenge this development. SERAP has filed a lawsuit against the RMAFC to halt the implementation of this salary increment. This resolute move represents a voice of reason and accountability at a time when public anger against political insensitivity is palpable. The group is rightly insisting that the law must serve as a bulwark against impunity.

According to a statement issued by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the commission has been dragged before the Federal High Court in Abuja. Although a hearing date remains unconfirmed, the momentous step of seeking judicial redress reflects a determination to hold those in power accountable. SERAP has once again positioned itself as a guardian of public interest by challenging an elite-centric policy.

The case, registered as suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/1834/2025, specifically asks the court to determine “whether RMAFC’s proposed salary hike for the president, vice-president, governors and their deputies, and lawmakers in Nigeria is not unlawful, unconstitutional and inconsistent with the rule of law.” This formidable question goes to the very heart of democratic governance: can those entrusted with public resources decide their own pay rises without violating the constitution and moral order?

In its pleadings, SERAP argues that the proposed hike runs foul of both the 1999 Nigerian Constitution and the RMAFC Act. By seeking a judicial declaration that such a move is unlawful, unconstitutional, and inconsistent with the rule of law, the group has placed a spotlight on the tension between self-serving leadership and constitutionalism. To trivialise such an issue would be harum-scarum, for the constitution remains the supreme authority guiding governance.

We wholeheartedly commend SERAP for standing firm, while we roundly condemn RMAFC’s selfish proposal. Political office should never be an avenue for financial aggrandisement. Since our leaders often pontificate sacrifice to citizens, urging them to tighten their belts in the face of economic turbulence, the same leaders must embody sacrifice themselves. Anything short of this amounts to double standards and betrayal of trust.

The Nigerian economy is not buoyant enough to shoulder the additional cost of a salary increase for political leaders. Already, lawmakers and executives enjoy allowances that are grossly disproportionate to the national average income. These earnings are sufficient not only for their needs but also their unchecked greed. To even consider further increments under present circumstances is egregious, a slap in the face of ordinary workers whose minimum wage remains grossly insufficient.

Resources earmarked for such frivolities should instead be channelled towards alleviating the suffering of citizens and improving the nation’s productive capacity. According to United Nations statistics, about 62.9 per cent of Nigerians were living in multidimensional poverty in 2021, compared to 53.7 per cent in 2017. Similarly, nearly 30.9 per cent of the population lives below the international poverty line of US$2.15 per day. These figures paint a stark picture: Nigeria is a poor country by all measurable standards, and any extra naira diverted to elite pockets deepens this misery.

Besides, the timing of this proposal could not be more inappropriate. At a period when unemployment is soaring, inflation is crippling households, and insecurity continues to devastate communities, the RMAFC has chosen to pursue elite enrichment. It is widely known that Nigeria’s economy is in a parlous state, and public resources should be conserved and wisely invested. Political leaders must show prudence, not profligacy.

Another critical dimension is the national debt profile. According to the Debt Management Office, Nigeria’s total public debt as of March 2025 stood at a staggering N149.39 trillion. External debt obligations also remain heavy, with about US$43 billion outstanding by September 2024. In such a climate of debt-servicing and borrowing to fund budgets, it is irresponsible for political leaders to even table the idea of inflating their salaries further. Debt repayment, not self-reward, should occupy their minds.

This ignoble proposal is insensitive, unnecessary, and profoundly reckless. It should be discarded without further delay. Public office is a trust, not an entitlement to wealth accumulation. Nigerians deserve leaders who will share in their suffering, lead by example, and prioritise the common good over self-indulgence. Anything less represents betrayal of the social contract and undermines the fragile democracy we are striving to build.