Nigeria human rights crisis: 390 killed, 202 kidnapped in May 2026

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) released its May 2026 Human Rights Situation Dashboard, recording 268,787 complaints across Nigeria. The report documented 390 deaths and 202 kidnappings in a single month, highlighting escalating violence against civilians, schoolchildren, worshippers and security personnel.

Notable incidents included the abduction of more than 45 pupils and teachers from schools in Oyo State, over 40 schoolchildren in Borno State, an attack on worshippers in Kwara State that left several dead and 15 abducted, and a reported civilian market airstrike in Tumfa, Zamfara State. The NHRC called for the adoption of the National Policy for the Protection of Civilians in Conflict and urged coordinated government action to mitigate civilian harm.

The commission also noted the neutralisation of terrorists and rescue of abducted victims by the military, while urging stronger support and equipment for security forces confronting multiple threats.