Over 10,000 Nigerians Killed Amid Security Crisis

Amnesty International has reported that more than 10,217 people were killed by gunmen across seven states (Benue, Niger, Katsina, Kebbi, Plateau, Sokoto, and Zamfara) during the first two years of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The organization stated that hundreds of villages were sacked by armed groups, leading to a looming humanitarian crisis.

Benue State recorded the highest death toll, followed by Plateau with 2,630 deaths. Amnesty accused the Nigerian authorities of failing to protect citizens despite promises to enhance security made by President Tinubu upon his assumption of office in May 2023.

The organization expressed concern over the emergence of new armed groups complicating the security landscape, including Lakurawa in Sokoto and Kebbi, and Mamuda in Kwara State. The violence has forced many residents to flee their homes, often lacking access to basic necessities such as food and healthcare.