The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, NHRC, Dr Anthony Ojukwu, has described hate speech as a threat to national cohesion, peace and security.
This is contained in an advisory opinion on the role of the media in countering and reporting hate speech issued in Abuja.
He urged all and sundry to work together to fight against hate speeches in political, social and cultural spheres.
Ojukwu recognized the role of the media in the promotion of freedom of expression and the need to continue to provide assistance for them as they play their roles.
He called for intensive efforts by the media and supported by government and other stakeholders to tackle hate speech.
According to him, the underlying factors that serve as vehicle for hate speech are corruption, poverty, inequalities and poor governance.
“Hate speech is a threat to the achievement of human rights, peace and sustainable development in Nigeria.
“There is need for concerted efforts by the media and supported by government and other stakeholders to combat hate speech” he said
