By Barth Ikiebe in Abuja.
Amnesty International has called on the Nigerian government to step up efforts in addressing rising insecurity in several parts of the country, saying that over 10,000 people have lost their lives and hundreds of villages come under attack over the past two years.
In a report released on Wednesday, the global human rights organisation said a total of 10,217 people have been killed and 672 villages affected in a pattern of violence largely concentrated in Benue, Plateau, Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Edo States.
Benue and Plateau States recorded the highest number of casualties, with 6,896 and 2,630 deaths respectively,the report added and described these figures as deeply concerning and highlighted the urgent need for a more coordinated and sustained security response.
“Other affected states, according to the report include Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Edo, and Zamfara”.
The organisation explained that its findings showed that rural communities in many areas were experiencing repeated attacks, displacement, and lack of access to basic services due to insecurity and limited government presence.
“In Zamfara State alone, attacks happen frequently,sometimes multiple times a day. At least 273 people have been killed and 467 abducted in the last two years. More than 500 villages are under the control of armed groups across 13 local government areas,” Amnesty reported.
It also highlighted the situation in Plateau, noting that 43 villages were destroyed in 38 incidents between March 27 and April 2, 2025, following clashes involving armed herders, adding that im Katsina State, 294 deaths and 306 abductions, mainly of women and girls, were reported in the same period.
The organisation described the humanitarian implications as severe, particularly for displaced farming communities who are unable to access their land or markets.
It said that in the Dangulbi district of Zamfara, for instance, farmers reportedly watched their sweet potato harvest go to waste due to blocked access routes.
“Continued displacement and insecurity could worsen food shortages and economic hardship in the affected areas,” the report warned.
Speaking on the findings, Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, said the situation called for urgent and strategic action.
He emphasized the need for stronger protection of lives and property and urged the government to reinforce security presence, restore civil administration, and support displaced populations.
“The authorities must prioritise the safety and well-being of citizens, especially those in rural areas who are most vulnerable,” he said.
Amnesty International encouraged federal and state governments to work together in finding sustainable solutions to the security challenges, including better coordination among security agencies, improved intelligence gathering, and meaningful support for affected communities.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
