NHRC: Hate Speech Threatens Democracy
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has described the rise in hate speech as a serious threat to democratic values and social harmony .
Dr. Tony Ojukwu , Executive Secretary of the NHRC, made the warning during a roundtable event in Abuja held to mark the International Day for Countering Hate Speech .
He said:
“Hate speech is not just harmful—it’s an attack on dignity, freedom, and democratic participation.”
Ojukwu stressed that hate speech violates the right to respect and silences people who fear discrimination or violence.
Digital Platforms Fuel Spread of Hate – NHRC
Ojukwu warned that digital technologies , especially those powered by artificial intelligence , are making hate speech more dangerous and widespread.
He said this year’s theme—“Hate Speech and Artificial Intelligence ”—highlights how technology can both help and harm society.
“AI is a tool for progress, but it can also spread hate faster than ever before.”
This double-edged reality calls for urgent reflection by citizens, tech companies, and regulators alike.
NHRC Steps Up Against Hate Speech
To combat hate speech, the NHRC has taken several steps, including:
- Launching the MOVE Project ahead of the 2023 elections to promote voter inclusion and counter hate-driven narratives
- Setting up a National Hate Speech Register for real-time tracking of incidents
- Training media professionals and staff across Nigeria to monitor and report hate speech
Ojukwu added:
“We’re equipping our teams and journalists to spot and stop hate speech before it spreads.”
The NHRC also issued an advisory on freedom of expression , responding to concerns about Section 24 of the Cybercrime (Amendment) Act 2024 .
UN: Hate Speech Has Become a Business
Ms. Ajuwa Kufour , Human Rights Adviser at the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator’s Office , said hate speech is growing globally—and especially online.
She said:
“Social media fuels misinformation every day. Now, hate speech has become a business used to destroy lives.”
Kufour noted that the combination of hate speech and AI makes the problem even more dangerous.
“That’s why the UN sees this as a top priority,” she said.
She confirmed that the UN is working closely with the NHRC to tackle hate speech across both digital and offline spaces .
Call to Action: Share Your Thoughts!
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💬 Leave a comment below and join the conversation on free speech, digital rights, and national unity.
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