Amnesty International Nigeria has renewed calls for justice ahead of the ninth anniversary of the 2016 Onitsha massacre, urging the Nigerian government to launch a transparent and effective investigation into the violent crackdown on pro-Biafra activists.
On 30 May 2016, security forces reportedly opened fire on members and supporters of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) during a peaceful gathering to mark Biafra Remembrance Day in Onitsha, Anambra State. According to Amnesty International, the night before the rally, security operatives raided homes and a church where IPOB members had gathered. The following day, shootings occurred at multiple locations across the city.
While the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed, Amnesty International estimates that at least 60 people were killed and 70 others injured between 30 and 31 May 2016. The organisation believes the actual death toll may be higher.
“Nearly nine years is far too long for victims and their families to wait for justice,” Amnesty International Nigeria said in a statement. “The Nigerian authorities must uphold their obligation to investigate these grave human rights violations in line with international standards.”
As the 30 May 2025 anniversary approaches, Amnesty International insists that accountability remains absent and calls for a credible inquiry into the events surrounding the killings.
