Civil society organisations (CSOs) under the Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) Network – PCVE-KIRH have announced plans to petition the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate politicians, clerics, monarchs, and other citizens accused of using their positions to incite violence.
The Chair of the PAVE National Steering Committee, Jaye Gaskia, disclosed this during the inauguration of the Network’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter. He said the findings of such an inquiry would provide a foundation for legal action against individuals making inflammatory statements, in line with existing laws on incitement.
Gaskia noted that although laws against incitement exist, enforcement has been weak because those responsible for upholding them are often among the violators. He stressed the need for civil society and citizens to hold leaders accountable, adding that class-action lawsuits could also be pursued by groups of victims.
“Another immediate step could be to petition the National Human Rights Commission and compel it to conduct an inquiry. Based on the outcome, we can then proceed to court,” he said.
PAVE’s Media Coordinator and Consultant, Senator Iroegbu, described the Network as a coalition of CSOs, experts, and professionals dedicated to preventing and countering violent extremism while promoting peace and stability in Nigeria. He emphasized that addressing violent extremism requires a “whole-of-society and whole-of-government” approach, stressing that security is a shared responsibility.
Iroegbu added that the FCT, as a microcosm of Nigeria, must remain secure given its diverse population and international presence, while also calling for the devolution of power to strengthen grassroots initiatives.
