By Andrew Haruna | Abuja | Nigeria News Today

Amnesty International Condemns Fresh Wave of Killings in Nigeria

Amnesty International has condemned the recent wave of killings across Nigeria, describing the past week as “yet another bloody one,” while faulting the authorities for failing to protect lives and property.

In a statement released on Friday, the global rights body urged the Nigerian government to take urgent steps to guarantee the safety of its citizens, warning that the country is witnessing an alarming deterioration in security.

“The Nigerian authorities must do more to address the horrifying and increasing threat to the right to life in some parts of the country,” Amnesty said.

65 Killed in One Week

According to the group, at least 65 people were killed in separate attacks across Nigeria within the past week alone.

• In Katsina State, gunmen attacked worshippers in a mosque, killing over 50 people and abducting more than 60 others.

• In Plateau State, at least 15 farmers were slaughtered by gunmen in Mangu LGA, leaving more than 200 people displaced.

Amnesty International warned that the “alarming escalation of attacks, abductions for ransom, and frequent killings across Nigeria have left people feeling more unsafe, showing utter failure of the authorities to protect lives and properties.”

Katsina Mosque Attack

On Tuesday, at least 32 worshippers were killed when armed men stormed a mosque in Unguwan Mantau community, Malumfashi LGA of Katsina State during the early morning Fajr prayer.

The attackers opened fire on congregants, leaving survivors and the entire community in shock.

Confirming the attack, Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasir Muazu, described it as a reprisal:

“The incident occurred when criminal elements launched a reprisal attack on the community. The Muslim members of the community were praying in the mosque during Fajr when the attackers started shooting sporadically inside the mosque.”

Call for Urgent Action

Amnesty International stressed that Nigerians should not be left at the mercy of rampaging gunmen.

“No one deserves to live constantly bracing up for the next attack or abduction,” the statement added.

The group further reminded the government of its obligations under international human rights law, regional treaties, and Nigeria’s constitution to protect the lives of all citizens without discrimination.

Despite repeated assurances from the government, killings and abductions continue across several states, heightening fears among communities and raising questions about the country’s security architecture.