Violent Extremism: PAVE Network petition NHRC over incendiary comments by politicians, clerics, monarchs - ITREALMS

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•Inaugurates FCT chapter

The Partnership Against Violent Extremism (PAVE) Network (PCVE-KIRH) has announced plans to petition the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to investigate politicians, clerics, monarchs, and other influential citizens who use their platforms to incite violence.

According to the Network, the outcome of such an inquiry could serve as the basis for legal action against perpetrators, as part of wider efforts to counter violent extremism in Nigeria.

Speaking at the inauguration of the PAVE Network’s FCT Chapter over the weekend, Jaye Gaskia, Chair of the National Steering Committee, stressed the urgent need for accountability.


“When it comes to incitement—whether by politicians, religious or traditional leaders—we have sufficient laws that define the harm and prescribe penalties. The real challenge is enforcement. Too often, those entrusted to uphold the law are also the violators. Civil society must therefore remain vigilant,” he said.

Gaskia added that citizens must begin to “call out” offenders and test the judicial system, including exploring class-action suits by victims of incitement. He further suggested that petitioning the NHRC could compel a formal inquiry, creating legal grounds for subsequent court action.

Senator Iroegbu, Media Coordinator and Consultant for the PAVE Network, explained that PAVE is a coalition of civil society organisations, experts, and professionals across Nigeria, committed to preventing and countering violent extremism while promoting peace and stability.

He observed that violent extremism is a global challenge, from Afghanistan to the Middle East, and even advanced countries struggle to contain it.


“This is why PAVE emphasises a whole-of-society, whole-of-government approach. Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he said.

Describing the FCT as a microcosm of Nigeria, Iroegbu stressed that Abuja’s diverse population and international community make its security paramount. He also called for greater devolution of power in the FCT, to ensure initiatives like PAVE’s cascade effectively to the grassroots.