Amnesty International (AI) demanded action on Wednesday against Boko Haram following a recent wave of violence that resulted in the deaths of over 40 civilians in Borno State.
In a statement, Isa Sanusi, the Director of AI Nigeria, condemned the actions of Boko Haram, emphasizing their blatant disregard for human life and international humanitarian law. This incident, which targeted farmers and fishermen in the Dumba community near Baga, highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in northeast Nigeria and the urgent need for accountability for such atrocities.
According to AI, the attackers reportedly rounded up men from the community and executed them at close range while pursuing those who attempted to escape. The violence has left many injured and missing, with ongoing searches for additional victims and plans for mass burials underway. This attack is part of a broader pattern of violence that includes abductions and property looting, underscoring a dire need for enhanced protection for civilians in the region.
The international community has been alerted to these ongoing violations as AI continues to document war crimes committed by both Boko Haram and Nigerian military forces. The organization stresses that both groups must be held accountable for their actions, contributing to a devastating humanitarian crisis affecting millions in northeastern Nigeria. Since 2011, the conflict has displaced over two million people and resulted in widespread human rights abuses.
Boko Haram’s violent campaign began in 2002 and has since escalated into one of the most severe security challenges facing Nigeria. Following its radicalization and subsequent military suppression efforts, the group has engaged in increasingly sophisticated attacks against civilian populations. Notably, their tactics have evolved from targeting soft targets to conducting mass executions and abductions, including the Chibok kidnapping of 276 schoolgirls in 2014. Despite claims from Nigerian authorities that Boko Haram has been “technically defeated,” the group continues to launch deadly assaults, revealing a persistent threat to regional stability.
The humanitarian implications of this conflict are profound. The United Nations (UN) reports that millions remain displaced due to ongoing violence, with many lacking access to essential services such as healthcare and education. Survivors of Boko Haram’s attacks often face stigmatization upon returning home, further complicating their reintegration into society.
The call from AI serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need for international attention and intervention regarding human rights violations in Nigeria. The situation demands not only immediate cessation of violence but also long-term strategies aimed at rebuilding affected communities and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. As this crisis continues to unfold, both local and global actors must prioritize the protection of human rights in their responses to this enduring conflict.
