Amnesty International says the failure of the Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties is responsible for the spate of bloody attacks in some communities in Plateau and Kaduna states.
In a statement released on Tuesday, AI said at least 112 people were killed and thousands displaced between July and August 5, 2021 in the two states.
It said: “Our findings show that despite clear signs that there will be retaliatory attacks, enough is not being done to prevent the bloodshed, thereby fueling the ongoing circle of violence.
“Beyond issuing statements and condemning attacks after they happen, the government needs to rein in attackers and bring suspects to justice,” Director Amnesty International Nigeria, Osai Ojigho, said in a statement.
“Amnesty International’s investigation shows at least 78 people were killed and 160 abducted by bandits between 3 July and 5 August 2021 in Kaduna State, including 121 school children of Bethel Baptist Church High School.
“At least 34 people have been killed in Plateau State, including seven herders who were attacked on 1 July at Dogon Gaba, two others were lynched at Fusa Village while trying to locate their missing cow.
“Villagers from farming communities informed Amnesty International that innocent people and communities that know nothing about the attacks are sometimes targeted for reprisal.”
AI added that a retaliatory attack on July 31 and August 1, 2021 led to the killing of at least 17 people, and the displacement of hundreds in farming communities in Bassa and Riyom local government areas of Plateau.
It said the slow and ineffective response by security officials is contributing to the attacks and reprisals in the state, and people are getting away with crimes.
“Nigerians expect the government to protect them and their property, as provided by the Nigerian constitution and as enshrined in international and African human rights treaties.
“The Nigerian authorities must act swiftly to prevent such attacks from happening. The slow response from security forces is clearly causing an increase in casualties. How much longer must people be forced to live in fear as such brutal attacks continue?” asked Osai Ojigho.