Drug Abuse, Forced Marriages Drive Extrajudicial Killings

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Nigeria, represented by Kano State Coordinator Shehu Abdullahi, has identified drug abuse, forced marriages, and domestic conflicts as major drivers of increasing extrajudicial killings in Kano State. During a review of the human rights situation, Abdullahi noted that extrajudicial killings are no longer confined to encounters with security agencies but are increasingly occurring within communities and households.

He attributed these incidents to forced marriages and unresolved marital disputes, particularly affecting young women. The NHRC recorded 452 complaints across various thematic areas during the review period, with children's rights violations accounting for the highest number at 269 complaints.

Additionally, 39 cases of domestic violence were documented, alongside 34 complaints related to economic, social, and cultural rights. The NHRC also reported 12 complaints concerning violations of the right to life, with 10 cases involving allegations against state actors.

Toni Ojukwu, the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, expressed concern over the rise in killings and insecurity nationwide, urging government authorities to adopt sustainable measures to address these issues.