Amnesty International has condemned the killing of at least 33 people during a two-day attack on communities in Katsina-Ala and Logo Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Benue State.
The attacks occurred on Sunday, November 24, and Monday, November 25, 2024, when gunmen, reportedly numbering in the hundreds, stormed Adabo and Tse Gwebe communities in Utange Council Ward of Katsina-Ala LGA, and Azege community in Tombo Mbaya, Logo LGA.
Residents of Azege, who had been living under the constant threat of violence, had developed a routine of seeking overnight refuge in the neighbouring community of Tsebi.
On Sunday morning, as many returned to Azege and others made their way to church, they were ambushed by the gunmen.
The attack left over 23 people dead, including women and children, while several others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical care at the Primary Health Care facility in Ayilamo, Logo LGA.
Amnesty International criticized the Nigerian authorities for failing to adequately protect rural communities in Benue State, where escalating violence, attacks, and kidnappings have left residents in a state of fear and uncertainty.
“The authorities’ inability to prevent these attacks has left many communities vulnerable and at the mercy of armed groups,” the organization stated.
Amnesty International is calling for an immediate and thorough investigation into the killings and demands that those responsible be brought to justice through fair trials, in line with international human rights standards, without recourse to the death penalty.
The organization reiterated the Nigerian government’s obligation to protect the life and property of all citizens, including those in rural and marginalized communities, and urged urgent action to restore peace and security in the region
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