Police Dispute Amnesty's Kidnapping Figures in Nigeria

The Nigerian Police Force has publicly challenged Amnesty International's report claiming that at least 1,100 individuals were kidnapped across Nigeria between January and April 2026. The police described these figures as unverifiable and not subject to scrutiny, raising concerns about the credibility of such reports.

Amnesty International had previously warned of a worsening wave of abductions, especially in northern Nigeria, and emphasized the dire situation faced by victims, including torture and forced participation in violent acts. The organization called on President Bola Tinubu to take urgent action.

Amnesty's report cited various incidents, including attacks in Woro village, Kwara State, where 200 people were reportedly killed and 176 abducted. Former presidential candidate Olawepo Hashim expressed concern over the increasing violence and underreporting of incidents, highlighting attacks in Kebbi State and other regions.

He criticized the muted response from the international community regarding the escalating insecurity in northern Nigeria.