Amnesty International Nigeria has called on the Nigerian government to take urgent and effective steps to end the wave of deadly attacks sweeping through rural communities in parts of the country.
In just one week, at least 71 people were killed—52 in Plateau State, 13 in Kebbi, and six in Katsina. In addition, over 50 people were abducted by gunmen in Katsina State.
The rights group warned that the escalating violence, marked by bloodshed and mass displacement, risks triggering a large-scale humanitarian crisis. Rural dwellers across states such as Benue and Plateau remain in a constant state of fear, with many feeling helpless as attacks become increasingly routine.
Amnesty International criticized the Nigerian government’s repeated claims of troop deployments to affected areas, noting that these efforts have failed to halt the violence or bring perpetrators to justice through fair trials. Previous military interventions, according to the organization, have yielded little to no results in curbing the insecurity or protecting vulnerable communities.
“The government’s consistent failure to hold attackers accountable is fostering a climate of impunity,” Amnesty International Nigeria said. “This negligence not only emboldens those responsible but also sends a dangerous message that such crimes bear no consequences.”
The organization urged the authorities to ensure that all those suspected of committing these atrocities are identified and prosecuted through due legal processes, and that affected communities receive adequate support and protection.
