Amnesty International has strongly condemned the killing of at least 24 people following a gunmen attack on Debe community in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State on 5 April 2026.
According to residents displaced by the violence, the attackers invaded the community on the evening of Easter Sunday, unleashing a wave of violence that left scores dead and property destroyed.
One resident who spoke to Amnesty International described the attackers as indiscriminate in their assault. “The killers were on rampage. During the attack they killed Muslims, Christians and followers of traditional religion. They kill every human being they came across,” the resident said.
The assault also led to widespread destruction of property, with several homes set ablaze, leaving many families homeless. A Catholic church, an outstation of Sacred Heart Parish, Shafa, was completely burnt down, while at least 14 shops belonging to local traders were also destroyed, wiping out livelihoods and goods worth significant value.
The attack triggered mass displacement, forcing residents to flee to neighbouring communities in search of safety.
Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to conduct a prompt, thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, and to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
The organisation also urged authorities to provide urgent humanitarian assistance and protection for displaced persons, while supporting affected communities in rebuilding their lives.
