Amnesty International Says 10,217 People Killed in Bandit Attacks During Tinubu’s First Two Years

In a report examining the country’s security situation, the human rights organisation said the affected states were Benue, Niger, Katsina, Kebbi, Plateau, Sokoto and Zamfara.

According to the report, Benue State recorded the highest number of deaths, followed by Plateau State, where 2,630 people were killed during the period under review.

Amnesty International said the killings occurred despite the Tinubu administration’s commitment to improving national security and protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.

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The organisation also reported the emergence of new armed groups during the first two years of the administration. These include Lakurawa, operating in parts of Sokoto and Kebbi states, and Mamuda, reported in Kwara State.

It further said persistent bandit attacks had forced hundreds of communities and villages to abandon their homes across Benue, Borno, Katsina, Sokoto, Plateau and Zamfara states, leaving thousands of residents displaced and vulnerable.

Amnesty International warned that the growing wave of attacks is creating a serious humanitarian and security crisis, with far-reaching consequences for communities across the country.

The human rights organisation said international law places an obligation on governments to protect civilians, investigate and prosecute those suspected of carrying out unlawful killings, and ensure that victims have access to justice and effective remedies.

However, Amnesty International accused Nigerian authorities of continuing to fall short of these obligations, saying the failure to adequately protect communities and hold perpetrators accountable is leaving thousands of Nigerians living in fear and uncertainty.

The report adds to growing concerns over Nigeria’s security challenges and the ability of authorities to effectively protect vulnerable communities in areas affected by armed violence.