Amnesty raises alarm over bandit attacks in Niger, Zamfara

Amnesty International Nigeria has raised the alarm over escalating bandit attacks in elements of Niger and Zamfara states, warning that a whole bunch of residents have been compelled to flee their communities and abandon their houses and farms.

The human rights organisation, in a submit on Tuesday, stated the attacks had affected a number of communities round Rijau in Niger State and elements of Zamfara State, leaving residents fleeing for security amid persistent insecurity.

Amnesty International stated many villagers had deserted properties and belongings they’d spent their lives constructing, whereas farmers have been leaving their farmlands because the harvest season approaches.

“The Nigerian authorities have displayed gross incompetence and a total disregard for people’s lives,” the organisation stated, condemning the authorities’ response to the attacks.

It accused the Nigerian authorities of failing to adequately defend rural communities in the northern area from armed teams liable for lethal attacks over the years.

“The Nigerian authorities have left rural communities in the north at the mercy of rampaging gunmen who have killed hundreds since 2018,” Amnesty International stated.

The organisation warned that continued attacks and mass displacement might push affected communities in direction of a serious humanitarian disaster, with critical penalties for meals safety and residents’ livelihoods.

“The Nigerian authorities’ failure to stem the violence is costing people’s lives and livelihoods, and without immediate action many more lives may be lost,” it added.

It referred to as for pressing motion to guard susceptible communities and forestall additional lack of lives and livelihoods.