NHRC Warns Hate Speech Threatens Nigeria's Democracy

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a warning regarding the dangers of hate speech to democracy and national unity in Nigeria. Dr. Ojukwu, the NHRC's executive secretary, stated that hate speech directly violates human rights and undermines human dignity, breaching the principles of equality and non-discrimination as enshrined in Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

He clarified that freedom of expression does not extend to speech that incites hatred or violence against individuals or groups. The NHRC referenced Nigeria's Cybercrime Act of 2015, which criminalizes the deliberate dissemination of offensive and inflammatory messages online.

Dr. Ojukwu cautioned that unchecked hate speech could deepen social divisions and create conditions for conflict, adversely affecting national development. He also noted that hate speech undermines the credibility of Nigeria's electoral process, intimidates voters, and discourages participation, exacerbating ethnic and religious divisions.

He urged Nigerians to verify information and report incidents of hate speech to the appropriate authorities.