Amnesty International has raised concerns over alleged human rights violations during recent protests in Northern Nigeria. The organization’s country director, Isa Sanusi, addressed the media, in Kano highlighting findings from field research conducted in Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa, and desk research in Maiduguri.
Sanusi reported that 12 people were killed in Kano during protests in Rijiyar Lemo and Kofar Nassarawa, while three were killed between Tafa and Suleja in Niger State. “People started crying on the issue of hunger. Amnesty International initiated field research to investigate these incidents,” Sanusi stated. He criticized the use of live ammunition by the police on peaceful protesters in Kano, which contravenes international laws.
Sanusi also highlighted the case of Khalid Aminu, who was allegedly tortured for 68 days by the Department of State Services (DSS). “They have declared him wanted because he revealed what happened to the public,” Sanusi added, emphasizing the resilience and tolerance of Nigerians despite these challenges.
Benedicta Ofili, another Amnesty International representative, welcomed attendees concerned about human rights violations and underscored the importance of bringing these issues to light. “We invited government agencies responsible for protecting the rights of Nigerians,” Ofili said. She emphasized that protesting is not a crime and questioned the government’s actions regarding the rights of protesters.
Aminu Hayatu, involved in the research, explained that Amnesty International conducted interviews with victims, survivors, relatives, eyewitnesses, lawyers, and activists in Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kaduna. “Evidences like bullet holes in walls are important,” Hayatu noted, stressing the significance of such evidence in documenting the violations.
Maurice Chukwu, Amnesty International staff member, shared heartbreaking testimonies, including the story of Firdausi, who was killed while buying charcoal, and a five-year-old child who was shot in the head. “On August 3, Zahraddin Umar was killed, and his father’s agony was compounded by police denial of the incident through the Kano PPRO Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa,” Chukwu recounted.
In Maiduguri, three fuel attendants were killed, further highlighting the extent of violence during the protests. Sanusi reiterated the importance of addressing these issues to prevent further violations.
Amnesty International’s findings have sparked discussions on human rights and the need for accountability in Nigeria. The organization called on government agencies to take necessary measures to protect citizens’ rights and uphold international standards.
After their several remarks a document was presented by Isa Sanusi Amnesty country director supported by his staff
