More than 10,000 individuals have died in Nigerian military custody since the onset of the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast region. This revelation was made during a press conference held in Maiduguri on December 5, 2024, where the organizations Country Director, Isa Sanusi, presented a comprehensive 144-page report titled *”Help Us Build Our Lives.”* Key Findings from the Report mass Deaths in Detention: The report asserts that at least 10,000 people have perished while in military detention since the conflict began. Allegations of War Crimes: Amnesty International accuses both Boko Haram and the Nigerian military of committing war crimes and other serious violations of international humanitarian law. These include extrajudicial killings, torture, rape, and enforced disappearances. Targeting of Civilians: The military is alleged to have treated individuals from Boko Haram-controlled areas as suspects, leading to arbitrary arrests and detentions without due process. Impact on Women and Children: The report highlights that women and girls who escaped Boko Haram captivity were subjected to further abuses, including unlawful detention and sexual violence, by Nigerian security forces. Response from Nigerian Authorities the Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has strongly refuted Amnesty International’s allegations. In a statement issued on December 6, 2024, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, described the claims as “spurious, shocking, and lacking in merit.” The DHQ emphasized that the Nigerian Armed Forces operate within the confines of international humanitarian law and have mechanisms in place to address any misconduct. They also invited Amnesty International to provide concrete evidence to substantiate their claims. International Legal Actions amnesty International has filed a case at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, seeking accountability for alleged crimes against humanity committed during the conflict. The organization urges the Nigerian government to conduct transparent investigations and ensure justice for the victims. Broader Context the Boko Haram insurgency, which began in 2009, has led to widespread violence in northeastern Nigeria. Both Boko Haram and the Nigerian military have faced accusations of human rights abuses. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement.
For a detailed understanding, readers can access the full report titled “Help Us Build Our Lives” on Amnesty International’s official website.
