239 people killed in Kwara, Niger, Benue, Katsina in February – Amnesty

Amnesty International Nigeria said no fewer than 239 people have so far been killed in various attacks in Kwara, Niger, Benue and Katsina states midway into February.

The human rights group stated this in a Sunday statement condemning fresh attacks that claimed 32 lives at Tungar-Makeri, Konsoko and Pissa villages of Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

It said, “Gunmen on dozens of motorcycles moved from one village to another — leaving behind dead bodies.

“The gunmen that also burnt houses and shops, invaded these communities at 3:00am, and 6:00am today — and were on killing spree upto 10:00am.

“The exact number of people killed is yet to be ascertained, as more dead bodies are still being found in and around farms.

“Villagers described feeling helpless and on edge, constantly bracing themselves for attacks.”

Amnesty noted that Nigerian authorities under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu had repeatedly claimed to be tackling the situation, but the mounting death toll tells a different story.

The rights group maintained that “alarming escalation of attacks, abductions for ransom and frequent killings across northern Nigeria have left people feeling more unsafe, showing utter failure of the Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties.”

It added, “Midway into February, over 239 people have so far been killed in various attacks in Kwara, Niger, Benue and Katsina state.

“These atrocities must END.”