Amnesty International has strongly condemned a fresh wave of deadly attacks that left at least 32 people dead in Tungar-Makeri, Konsoko and Pissa villages in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.
The attacks, carried out by heavily armed gunmen riding on dozens of motorcycles, began in the early hours of Sunday and lasted for several hours. According to local sources, the assailants moved from one community to another, leaving behind trails of destruction.
Residents said the attackers struck between 3:00am and 6:00am and continued their killing spree until about 10:00am. Houses and shops were set ablaze, while several villagers were shot dead as they attempted to flee.
The exact number of casualties remains unclear, as more bodies are still being discovered in surrounding farmlands and remote areas.
Reacting in a statement on Sunday, Amnesty International said villagers are living in constant fear, describing how communities feel helpless and remain on edge, always bracing for the next attack.
The rights group noted that Nigerian authorities, under the leadership of Bola Tinubu, have repeatedly claimed to be addressing the worsening security situation, but recent events suggest otherwise.
According to the organisation, the growing wave of attacks, kidnappings for ransom and frequent killings across northern parts of Nigeria reflects a failure to adequately protect lives and property.
It added that the alarming rise in violence has left many citizens feeling more vulnerable than ever, despite repeated assurances from security agencies.
Reports indicate that by mid-February, no fewer than 239 people have been killed in separate attacks across Kwara, Niger, Benue and Katsina states.
Amnesty International urged the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to end the bloodshed and bring perpetrators to justice, warning that continued inaction would deepen public mistrust.
“These atrocities must END.”