The Kaduna State office of the National Human Rights Commission said it received a total of 268 cases of human rights abuses in the first quarter of 2024.

The state Coordinator, Terngu Gwar, said on Thursday in Kaduna that out of the figure, 20 of the cases had been concluded, while 248 were at various stages of intervention.

According to him, most of the cases are linked to domestic violence, forced marriage, parental issues, unlawful arrests and detention including issues related to entitlements and inheritance.

He said, “Forty of the cases are on domestic violence, 39 on abandonment of wives and family, the remaining on rape, trafficking, custody and access to children and force marriage.”

Mr Gwar said that the commission had mediated on matters involving couples and families, adding that some of the cases were referred to court after a thorough investigation.

He stated that the NHRC involves relevant institutions such as the police, Ministry of Justice, Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in resolving some of the cases.

The coordinator said the commission remained committed to the protection, promotion and enforcement of the fundamental human rights of citizens.

“As a citizen when your right is violated, you can take a bold step by reporting the case to our office for appropriate action,’’ he said, assuring that all pending cases would be handled properly and timely.

Mr Gwar urged the Kaduna State government to ensure an enabling environment, enforce existing laws and provide additional policies and legal framework to check right abuses.

He further urged other stakeholders to do more to guarantee the security of the girl-child, women and children at home, schools, and workplaces.

(NAN)