Ex-Presidential Candidate Warns of Underreported Killings

Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate, issued a statement on April 12, 2026, expressing grave concern over the underreporting of mass killings across Nigeria. He highlighted a recent attack in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where 40 people were reportedly killed within a week, with the death toll expected to rise as bodies are discovered and homes are razed.

He noted that similar attacks in Kwara State resulted in 20 to 50 deaths, including five forest guards, yet received minimal attention outside local reports. Olawepo-Hashim emphasized that the true scale of killings reflects a worrying trend where large-scale violence is not treated with the seriousness it deserves.

He pointed out that Benue State recorded 50 to 100 deaths in a week, while Plateau State experienced coordinated night attacks resulting in 30 to 80 fatalities. He criticized the muted response from global institutions, including the United Nations and the African Union, which he believes contributes to the ongoing violence and devaluation of human life in Nigeria.