NHRC Raises Alarm Over Rising Hate Speech Ahead of 2027 Elections

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has warned that unchecked hate speech could undermine peace, unity, democracy, and national development.

The warning is contained in a statement by the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages of the Commission, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, and obtained by Persecondnews on Thursday.

According to the statement, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Chief Tony Ojukwu, gave the warning at the commemoration of the International Day for Countering Hate Speech.

Ojukwu said hate speech constitutes a direct violation of human rights and undermines dignity, equality, and non-discrimination.

He warned that such expressions weaken the moral and legal foundations of society and erode mutual respect among citizens.

“Hate speech strips people of their dignity and violates the right to equality and non-discrimination,” he said.

Ojukwu stressed that while freedom of expression is protected, it does not extend to speech that incites hatred, hostility, or violence against others.

According to him, responsible communication is essential to maintaining peace and social cohesion.

“Freedom of expression does not extend to speech that incites hatred, hostility, and violence against others.”

The NHRC chief referenced Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, noting that hate speech contradicts the principles of equality and non-discrimination.

He further cited Sections 24 and 26 of the Cybercrimes Act 2015, which criminalise the deliberate spread of offensive and inflammatory online content.

He warned that without legal and social checks, hate speech could destabilise communities, fuel conflict, and reverse development gains.

He explained that such divisions could lead to loss of trust, closure of businesses and schools, displacement of families, and withdrawal of investment.

“Hate speech is not harmless talk. It is a trigger for conflict and a brake on national development,” Ojukwu warned.

He called on political actors, religious and traditional leaders, the media, and citizens to reject hate speech, verify information before sharing, and report incitement to violence and discrimination to the appropriate authorities.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring, documenting, and responding to hate speech incidents nationwide in order to safeguard peace, unity, and democratic stability.