Amnesty International is calling for an urgent investigation into the reported deaths of around 150 people at a camp in Nigeria, where members of the Fulani community were being held.
According to the report, about 1,500 Fulani many of them displaced by violence were taken to a site in Yikpata, in Kwara State, where they were allegedly detained under harsh conditions. Amnesty says overcrowding, poor sanitation, disease, and severe food shortages led to multiple deaths, including children and pregnant women.
Witness accounts describe a dire situation. Some detainees said they fled attacks by armed groups, only to face new dangers inside the camp. Amnesty also warned that at least 100 pregnant women are at risk of serious health complications.
There are conflicting statements from Nigerian authorities. Military officials have denied responsibility for the camp, while others say an investigation is underway into the reported conditions.
Isa Sanusi, head of Amnesty International Nigeria, said the Fulani community is “facing persecution on two fronts” from armed groups and from security operations.
The rights group argues that the detentions violate Nigeria’s constitution and international law, and is urging the government to release those held and improve protection for vulnerable communities.
The situation comes amid rising violence in parts of Kwara, including deadly attacks earlier this year blamed on extremist groups.
Source: AfricaNews
