112 people killed in Plateau, Kaduna in one month – Amnesty

Amnesty International has said at least 112 people were killed and thousands displaced from July to August 5, 2021 in Plateau and Kaduna states.

The organisation said despite signs of retaliatory attacks, not enough was done to avert the bloodshed, thereby fuelling the ongoing circle of violence.

The international organization stated this in a statement released on Tuesday, adding that the failure of Nigerian authorities to protect lives and properties had enabled the bloody attacks in some communities in Plateau and Kaduna states.

Amnesty asked the government to bring perpetrators of the violent attacks to book, before issuing statements to condemn attacks.

The statement read, “At least 112 people were killed, 160 abducted and thousands displaced in communities in Kaduna and Plateau states from July to 5 August 2021.

“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; government needs to rein in on attackers and bring suspects to justice,” said Osai Ojigho Director Amnesty International Nigeria.

“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 7 herders who were attacked on 1 July at Dogon Gaba, 2 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.”

It added that a retaliatory attack on July 31 and August 1 “led to the killing of at least 17 people, and displacements of hundreds in farming communities in Bassa and Riyom LGAs, Plateau state”.