Nigeria Plagued by Rise in Mob Violence, Amnesty International Reports

A disturbing trend of mob violence is sweeping across Nigeria, with alarming cases of brutal assaults, torture, and summary executions, primarily targeting individuals accused of theft, blasphemy, shoplifting, and witchcraft. According to Amnesty International’s latest report, “Instantly Killed: How Law Enforcement failures exacerbate wave of mob violence in Nigeria,” at least 555 victims have fallen prey to mob violence between January 2012 and August 2023.

Key Findings:

• Geopolitical Zones Affected: Mob violence cases reported in all six zones: South-South (82), South-East (43), South-West (98), North-Central (42), North-West (100), and North-East (26)
• Vulnerable Groups Targeted: At least 13 women, six children, and two persons with mental health illnesses and/or psycho-social or intellectual disabilities affected
• Brutal Methods: 57 people killed, 32 burnt alive, 2 buried alive, and 23 tortured to death

Amnesty International’s Concerns:

Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International in Nigeria, emphasizes that mob violence poses a significant threat to the right to life in Nigeria. “The authorities’ failure to uphold and fulfil their obligation to protect people from harm and violence is shocking,” he states. Sanusi attributes the rise in mob violence to:

• Law Enforcement Failures: Inadequate prevention, investigation, and prosecution of mob violence cases
• Corrupt Institutions: Weak and corrupt legal institutions and systems empowering mobs to kill
• Lack of Access to Justice: Ineffective remedies for victims and their families

Government’s Response:

The Nigerian government has yet to respond to Amnesty International’s findings. The organization urges the government to:

• Investigate Mob Violence: Prompt, thorough, impartial, and independent investigations
• Prevent Mob Violence: Effective measures to prevent cases across the country
• Ensure Access to Justice: Adequate equipment for police to respond to mob violence

As Nigeria grapples with this growing menace, it’s essential for the government to take concrete steps to protect its citizens’ human rights and address the root causes of mob violence.