A human rights group, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety), has accused governors in Nigeria’s South-East of failing to act as herdsmen violence continues to escalate in the region.
In an eight-page report released on Thursday, the group alleged that governors of Imo, Ebonyi, Anambra, and Enugu have done little to address the crisis, while Abia State remains under watch. The document was signed by Intersociety’s Head, Emeka Umeagbalasi, along with key officials, including Chinwe Umeche (Democracy and Good Governance), Obianuju Joy Igboeli (Civil Liberties and Rule of Law), and Engineer Ekene Bede Umeagu (Religious Freedom and Human Rights).
According to Intersociety, thousands of people in the region have lost their lives due to unchecked attacks by armed herdsmen. The group accused the governors of maintaining a “conspiracy of silence and inaction” while violence spreads across communities.
“This continued negligence has endangered lives and property, violating fundamental human rights, including the right to security, religious freedom, and ethnic identity,” the report stated.
Intersociety also alleged that the attacks by “Jihadist Fulani Herdsmen” are either underreported or deliberately suppressed under the watch of these governors. The group further claimed that there have been numerous cases of third-party land acquisitions for jihadist groups across the South-East, facilitated by individuals linked to state and federal government officials.
The report indicted not only the governors but also past and serving commissioners of homeland security, special advisers on security, and officials responsible for community security and border conflict resolution. In response, Intersociety vowed to pursue visa bans against these government officials.
Meanwhile, the group also raised concerns over the detention of over 40 traditional worshippers in Anambra, arguing that they have no legal case to answer. It condemned their prolonged detention at a facility known as “Lion House” in Awka, where they have been held for more than 60 days without trial.
Intersociety called on the U.S. government to reinstate Nigeria on the list of “Countries of Particular Concern” for violations of international religious freedom.
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