The National Human Rights Commission has disclosed that it recorded more than 600 cases of human rights violations in Borno State between January and July 2026, with domestic violence, child abuse, rape, human trafficking and unlawful detention among the most frequently reported offences.
The State Coordinator of the commission, Ms Jummai Mshelia, revealed this during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Maiduguri.
She attributed the growing number of reported cases to increased public confidence in the commission’s activities and sustained awareness campaigns encouraging victims to speak out against abuse.
Domestic Violence Tops Reported Cases
Mshelia said domestic violence remains one of the most common human rights violations reported to the commission, describing it as a persistent challenge despite ongoing advocacy and intervention efforts.
According to her, many victims who previously remained silent are now coming forward to seek justice because they have greater confidence in the commission’s ability to handle their complaints.
“Many victims previously considered domestic violence a private family matter and were reluctant to speak out.
“Today, more people are willing to report such cases because they trust the commission and believe they can get justice,” she said.
She explained that the commission has intensified public enlightenment campaigns across communities in Borno State, helping to change public perception about domestic abuse and encouraging victims to report violations.
Wide Range of Human Rights Violations Reported
The NHRC coordinator disclosed that the cases received by the commission cover a broad spectrum of human rights abuses affecting women, children and other vulnerable members of society.
She listed the reported violations to include sexual and gender-based violence, unlawful detention, child abandonment, child maltreatment, rape, sexual exploitation, forced marriage, kidnapping, human trafficking and domestic violence.
Mshelia noted that these violations continue to pose serious threats to the rights, safety and wellbeing of residents, particularly women and children.
Child Abuse, Neglect Remain Major Concern
The commission also expressed concern over the increasing number of cases involving children, revealing that several reports of child abuse, neglect and abandonment had been received during the period under review.
Mshelia said protecting children remains a priority for the commission, adding that efforts are being intensified to ensure victims receive the necessary support while perpetrators are held accountable in accordance with the law.
She stressed the need for parents, guardians, community leaders and relevant stakeholders to work together to safeguard children’s rights and prevent abuse.
Awareness Campaigns Boost Public Confidence
According to the NHRC, increased public sensitisation and community engagement have played a significant role in encouraging victims to report abuses that were previously hidden.
Mshelia said the commission’s outreach programmes have helped residents better understand their rights and the available legal channels for seeking redress.
She noted that growing trust in the commission has contributed to the steady rise in reported cases, describing it as a positive indication that more victims are willing to seek justice rather than suffer in silence.
Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Human Rights
The coordinator reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting the rights of all residents, ensuring that victims have access to justice and promoting respect for human rights across Borno State.
She urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of abuse and human rights violations, assuring them that the commission remains committed to investigating complaints and working with relevant authorities to ensure justice is served.
