In anticipation of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s imminent visit to Nigeria, Kate Hixon, Africa Advocacy Director at Amnesty International USA, emphasized the critical importance of placing human rights at the forefront of diplomatic discussions. Hixon underscored the potential for constructive engagement with the new Tinubu Administration but emphasized that the success of the trip hinges on a central focus on human rights issues.
Highlighting concerns over the Nigerian military’s actions, particularly in instances of airstrikes against armed militias resulting in civilian casualties, Hixon called for Secretary Blinken to advocate for thorough investigations and accountability for all civilian deaths attributable to the military’s operations.
In the wake of the Christmas Eve attack in Plateau State, Hixon expressed disappointment in the Tinubu government’s perceived failure to uphold its commitment to protecting civilians. She urged Secretary Blinken to press President Tinubu to go beyond issuing statements and to actively ensure justice and accountability for civilians adversely affected by armed groups, emphasizing the need for a measured government response that avoids further harm to civilians.
Isa Sanusi, Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, stressed the imperative for Secretary Blinken to address the persistent harassment of human rights defenders and journalists in Nigeria. He specifically cited the case of Omoyele Sowore, facing what he deemed as flawed charges solely for exercising his right to freedom of expression. Sanusi further called for the release of individuals such as Mubarak Bala, Yahaya Aminu-Sharif, and Ismaila Sani Isah, currently detained on blasphemy accusations, and the unconditional dropping of charges against Rhoda Jatau.
The statement also highlighted the plight of the remaining EndSARS protestors still in detention years after their protests, urging Secretary Blinken to advocate for their immediate release and stressing the necessity of due process and fair trials. Furthermore, the Secretary was urged to press for the full implementation of the findings of the investigation into the killings of peaceful #EndSARS protesters by the military and police. Calls were made for investigations into all police atrocities before and after the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), compensation for victims, and the prosecution of perpetrators.
In addressing these issues, the call to action underscored the need for the U.S. to leverage its diplomatic engagement to promote human rights and justice within the Nigerian context.
