The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has voiced serious concerns over recent forced evictions in Lagos State and the enforcement of sit-at-home directives in Anambra State, warning that both actions threaten citizens’ fundamental rights.
Executive Secretary of the Commission. Dr. Tony Ojukwu expressed alarm over the ongoing demolition of waterfront and informal settlements in Makoko, Lagos, which has reportedly displaced thousands of residents.
According to him, the demolitions were carried out without adequate notice, compensation, or resettlement plans, leaving many families homeless and livelihoods destroyed.
He said: “These actions contradict constitutional protections for dignity, housing, and family life, as well as international human rights standards to which Nigeria is committed,” while noting that court rulings prohibiting forced evictions are often ignored, undermining public trust in the rule of law.
The NHRC called for an immediate halt to all demolitions, urging authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue with affected communities and ensure proper compensation and resettlement before any development projects proceed.
The Commission also weighed in on the situation in Anambra State, where traders complied with the illegal sit-at-home directive, prompting the closure of Onitsha Main Market. While praising the government’s efforts to address the sit-at-home enforcement.
Ojukwu cautioned against collective punishment of traders, which he said infringes on the rights to livelihood, freedom of movement, and due process.
He highlighted the economic impact of repeated sit-at-home days, with government estimates suggesting losses of up to ₦8 billion every Monday, and stressed the need for measures that balance security with protection of human rights.
Ojukwu reiterated that development, law enforcement, and economic regulation must respect fundamental rights. He warned that ignoring these principles could deepen social vulnerabilities and erode trust in government, calling for justice, fairness, and respect for citizens’ dignity to guide Nigeria’s growth and governance.
Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages at the NHRC, Fatimah Mohammedconfirmed that the Commission would continue monitoring both situations closely and engaging relevant authorities.
