Nigeria: Amnesty Asks FG, Governors to Probe Killings in South-East

What the report says

Amnesty International Nigeria has called on South-East governors, the Federal Ministry of Justice and security agencies to urgently investigate reported human rights abuses and unlawful killings in the region, according to Premium Times via AllAfrica. The appeal came during a town hall meeting in Umuahia, Abia State, where the group also asked lawyers, activists, community leaders and security officials to back its campaign against impunity.

At the event, Amnesty presented two reports: one focused on attacks and unlawful killings across South-East Nigeria, and another on alleged abuses by the Imo State Police Anti-Kidnapping Unit, known as Tiger Base. Amnesty officials said the killings and insecurity have involved non-state armed groups, state-backed outfits and heavy-handed security operations, and have led to displacement, disruptions to schooling and farming, and broader fear in communities. The organization also said many allegations have not been followed by independent investigations or prosecutions.

Amnesty researcher Benedicta Ofili and others said the group documented extensive deaths and other abuses, while calling for investigations, prosecutions and reparations. An Abia State justice official said the state government rejects rights violations and has procedures for receiving complaints. Relatives at the meeting described disappearances and alleged killings of family members, underscoring the personal toll of the violence.

For context, the South-East has faced years of insecurity tied by authorities to separatist violence and clashes involving armed groups and security forces, though allegations continue to be disputed by some actors. Amnesty says the current cycle of violence reflects a need for accountability and independent scrutiny.