The Amnesty International Nigeria has sounded the alarm over worsening security crisis across northern Nigeria, pointing accusing fingers at the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for failing to protect lives and property despite earlier promises to improve national security.
In a statement posted on its official X account, the organisation said an “alarming escalation of attacks, abductions for ransom and frequent killings across northern Nigeria” has left residents feeling increasingly unsafe.
According to Amnesty International, the surge in violence demonstrates what it called the “utter failure of the Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties.”
The group warned that renewed attacks by armed groups, including Lakurawa, Mamuda, Boko Haram and bandits, show that existing security strategies have not yielded results.
“The recent escalation of attacks by Lakurawa, Mamuda, Boko Haram, bandits and other armed groups shows that the security measures currently being implemented by President Tinubu’s government are simply not working,” the organisation stated.
Amnesty International recalled that Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 with a pledge to strengthen national security but said the situation has deteriorated instead.
“President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 — with a promise to enhance security. Instead, things have only gotten worse, as the authorities continue to fail to protect the right to life, physical integrity, liberty and the security of tens of thousands of people across the country,” the statement added.
The rights group further stressed that Nigerian authorities are legally bound under both domestic and international laws to safeguard citizens and ensure accountability for violent crimes.
“Under Nigeria’s constitution and international human rights law, the authorities have obligation to protect lives and ensure that those suspected of perpetrating these killings are held to account, as well as to provide victims with access to justice and effective remedies,” Amnesty International said.
The organisation’s warning comes amid growing concerns by residents and civil society groups over persistent attacks, mass kidnappings and killings across several northern states, with critics repeatedly accusing security agencies of failing to curb the worsening violence.