The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Tony Ojukwu, has warned that hate speech is a direct violation of human rights and a threat to Nigeria’s peace, unity and development.

He gave the warning in Abuja on Thursday in a statement to commemorate the International Day for Countering Hate Speech.

The day is annually marked on June 18 to raise awareness about the danger of hate speech and its implications on human existence and promote action against hate speech.

The United Nations General Assembly designated the day through resolution A/RES/75/309, building on the UN Strategy and Plan of Action on Hate Speech launched on June 18, 2019.

The global observance is to encourage governments, civil society, international organisations, educators, media and individuals to hold events that will promote strategies to identify, address and counter hate speech.

The NHRC scribe, therefore, stated that “Hate speech strips people of their dignity and violates the right to equality and non-discrimination, contrary to Article 7 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.”

He noted that while freedom of expression is protected, it does not extend to speech that incites hatred, hostility and violence against others.

According to him, the deliberate spread of offensive and inflammatory messages online is already recognised as an offence under sections 24 and 26 of the Nigeria Cybercrimes Act 2015.

He stressed that the law must be matched with responsible conduct by political actors, traditional and religious leaders, the media and citizens.

He cautioned that if left unchecked, hate speech could fuel division and lay the foundation for conflict.

He added that, “When communities are set against each other, public trust erodes, businesses shut down, schools close and investors flee. Conflict destroys infrastructure, displaces families and reverses years of developmental gains. No nation can build on the ruins of hatred.”

Mr Ojukwu, who urged Nigerians to reject hate speech, verify information before sharing and report incitement to violence and discrimination to the appropriate authorities, added, “Let us not allow hate speech to spread ahead of the 2027 general elections.”

The NHRC boss pledged the commission’s commitment to continue monitoring, documenting and responding to hate speech incidents across the country.

(NAN)