The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) says it received more than 600 cases of human rights violations in Borno State between January and July 2026, with domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking and sexual exploitation among the most commonly reported offences.
The NHRC State Coordinator in Borno, Jummai Mshelia, disclosed this during an interview in Maiduguri, saying the increase in reported cases reflects growing public confidence in the commission’s work and awareness campaigns.
According to her, the complaints received by the commission cover domestic violence, sexual and gender-based violence, unlawful detention, child abandonment, child maltreatment, rape, sexual exploitation, forced marriage, kidnapping and human trafficking.
Mshelia said domestic violence remains one of the most frequently reported violations, noting that many victims who previously remained silent are now coming forward because they trust the commission to help them seek justice.
She also expressed concern over the increasing number of child abuse and neglect cases, attributing the trend to poverty, displacement, inadequate parental care and domestic violence.
The coordinator warned that many vulnerable children have been forced into street begging and other survival activities, exposing them to greater risks of exploitation and abuse.
She urged parents and guardians to prioritise the welfare, education and emotional well-being of their children while encouraging residents to report human rights violations without delay.
According to Mshelia, many complaints have been resolved through mediation and alternative dispute resolution, while criminal cases have been referred to the police and the Ministry of Justice for further investigation and prosecution.
She reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to ensuring justice for victims and reminded residents that all NHRC services remain free of charge.
Mshelia, however, identified the lack of operational vehicles as a major challenge affecting the commission’s ability to respond quickly to cases and extend its services across Borno State.
