Nigeria’s security crisis deepens with over 10,000 killed in two years — Amnesty

A new report from Amnesty International has revealed a grim death toll of at least 10,217 people killed in violent attacks across northern and central Nigeria since President Bola Tinubu assumed office two years ago,highlighting a deepening security and humanitarian crisis.

The report,released on the second anniversary of Tinubu’s administration,accuses the Nigerian government of failing to deliver on its pledge to enhance national security. Amnesty documented thousands of deaths from armed group raids,banditry,and communal clashes,particularly in Benue and Plateau states. Benue,the hardest-hit region,accounted for 6,896 deaths,while Plateau followed with 2,630. In Zamfara alone,638 villages were reportedly sacked by bandits,displacing hundreds of thousands and exacerbating an unfolding humanitarian emergency.

Instead of progress,“things have only gotten worse,as the authorities continue to fail to protect the rights to life,physical integrity,liberty and the security of tens of thousands of people across the country,” said Isa Sanusi,Amnesty International Nigeria’s Director. “The recent escalation of attacks by Boko Haram and other armed groups shows that the security measures implemented by President Tinubu’s government are simply not working.” The report also identified emerging armed groups such as Lakurawa in Sokoto and Mamuda in Kwara,further complicating Nigeria’s fragile security landscape. Despite President Tinubu’s repeated reassurances and new military directives,Amnesty warns that without urgent and effective action,the death toll and humanitarian consequences could escalate further.