Amnesty International Nigeria has called on the Nigerian authorities to launch an immediate and impartial investigation into allegations of targeted attacks on northern truck drivers transporting goods to or through the Southeast region. The human rights organization expressed deep concern over reports that truck drivers from the North have been systematically attacked, killed, and their vehicles set ablaze while traveling through certain routes in the Southeast.
According to reports, the attacks have been concentrated along major transit routes, particularly the Enugu-Lokpanta-Okigwe and Okigwe-Umuahia highways in Abia State. Families of the victims claim that between January and December 2024, at least 20 truck drivers were killed, while numerous trucks were burnt or severely damaged.
Amnesty International underscored the urgent need for a thorough investigation into these incidents to determine the perpetrators, motives, and the extent of security lapses that have enabled such attacks. The organization also called on authorities to ensure that those responsible are identified, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The wave of abductions, killings, and violent attacks across Nigeria has fueled growing public concern over the government’s inability to provide security and protect lives. Amnesty International noted that the failure of security agencies to curb these violent crimes has deepened fears among citizens, especially those involved in commercial transportation and interstate trade.
The rights group described the unabated killings and targeted violence as a gross violation of human rights, emphasizing that freedom of movement is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It stated that every individual should be able to travel freely without fear of intimidation, harm, or discrimination.
Amnesty International urged the Nigerian government to take decisive steps to end the violence, ensure the safety of truck drivers and travelers, and restore public confidence in security agencies. The organization also called for increased security presence along the affected routes and the deployment of special task forces to prevent further attacks.
Furthermore, the group appealed to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and civil society organizations to monitor and report on the security situation to ensure that justice is served. It stressed that ending impunity and holding perpetrators accountable would serve as a deterrent against future attacks.
Amnesty International reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for justice, human rights, and the protection of all citizens and vowed to continue monitoring developments on this issue.
