The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised serious concerns over recent forced evictions in Lagos State and the enforcement of sit-at-home directives in Anambra State, warning that both developments pose grave threats to citizens’ fundamental rights.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, expressed alarm over the ongoing demolition of waterfront and informal settlements in Makoko, Lagos, which he said has reportedly displaced thousands of residents.
According to Ojukwu, the demolitions were carried out without adequate notice, compensation or resettlement plans, leaving many families homeless and depriving them of their livelihoods.
“These actions contradict constitutional protections for dignity, housing and family life, as well as international human rights standards to which Nigeria is committed,” he said. He further noted that court rulings prohibiting forced evictions are frequently ignored, thereby undermining public confidence in the rule of law.
The NHRC called for an immediate halt to all demolitions and urged relevant authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue with affected communities. It stressed that proper compensation and resettlement must be guaranteed before any development projects are undertaken.
The Commission also commented on developments in Anambra State, where traders reportedly complied with an illegal sit-at-home directive, leading to the closure of the Onitsha Main Market. While acknowledging government efforts to address the enforcement of sit-at-home orders, Ojukwu cautioned against what he described as collective punishment of traders.
He warned that such measures infringe on citizens’ rights to livelihood, freedom of movement and due process.
Ojukwu highlighted the economic consequences of repeated sit-at-home days, citing government estimates that suggest losses of up to ₦8 billion every Monday. He stressed the need for responses that strike a balance between security concerns and the protection of human rights.
Reiterating the Commission’s position, Ojukwu said development initiatives, law enforcement actions and economic regulations must be firmly grounded in respect for fundamental rights. He warned that failure to uphold these principles could worsen social vulnerabilities and erode public trust in government.
He called for justice, fairness and respect for human dignity to remain central to Nigeria’s growth and governance.
Meanwhile, the Director of Corporate Affairs and External Linkages at the NHRC, Fatimah Mohammed, confirmed that the Commission would continue to monitor both situations closely and engage with relevant authorities.
