The Nigerian Legislature and Human Rights Abuses, 2015-2023

ABSTRACT Human rights abuse remains a prevalent problem in Nigeria, with many reports revealing widespread violations by both state and non-state actors. The Nigerian legislature, as a fundamental arm of government, is constitutionally mandated to defend and promote human rights. However, the legislature's efficiency in dealing with human rights violations remains debatable. This paper investigates the role of the Nigerian legislature in combating human rights violations, focusing on the problems, that Although legislative measures exist, citizens are not utilising them effectively. This is due in part to a lack of understanding of the legislature's role in safeguarding human rights and advancing democratic governance. Many Nigerians focus entirely on the executive arm of government, frequently blaming the President or the executive arm's of the government for human rights violations, without realising the crucial role that the legislative plays in keeping the executive accountable. and protecting human rights. The study was guided by the following research objectives:(1) . analyze the legislative measures in place that prevent human rights abuse in Nigeria.(2) analyze the impact of legislative's response on the credibility and legitimacy of democratic governance in Nigeria To empirically interrogate the research objectives, the study adopted documentary method of data collection and Content Analysis. The study adopted Ex-post facto research design and democratic governance theory. The study arrived at the following findings; (1).The legislative measures in Nigeria effectively promoted human rights protection between 2015 to 2023.(2)The Legislative's Response to human rights abuse has a significant impact on the credibility and legitimacy of democratic governance system in Nigeria. Based on the findings, the study made the following recommendation: (1) strengthening and strict enforcement of human rights measures in place.(2) Education and public awareness campaign of legislative's measures and avenues in place for resolving the issue of Human rights abuses.