The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT Global) has expressed deep concern over what it described as disturbing figures surrounding kidnapping and insecurity in Nigeria, warning that the trend poses a grave threat to human life and national stability.
In a statement signed by its Country Director, Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the organisation referenced recent data released by the National Bureau of Statistics indicating that within a twelve-month period, no fewer than 614,937 lives were lost to kidnapping, while ransom payments exceeding ₦2 trillion were made across the country.
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Describing the figures as deeply alarming, the Commission said the statistics reflect not only a severe security breakdown but also a profound moral and constitutional crisis.
“As a human rights organisation in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), we reiterate that the right to life is sacred and non-negotiable,” part of the statement reads.
The group cited Section 33 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right to life, as well as Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which affirms that everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.
Drawing from religious teachings, the Commission quoted the Holy Qur’an (5:32), which states that killing a soul is akin to killing all individual, and the Holy Bible (Exodus 20:13), which commands, “Thou shalt not kill.”
The IHRC called on relevant authorities to respond decisively and transparently to the crisis, stressing that leadership is a sacred trust and that protection of human life must remain the foremost priority of governance.
“The protection of human life must remain the highest priority of governance. History will judge, more importantly, God will judge,” the statement added.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
