Hussaini Kafi in Kano
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has rejected a recent report by Amnesty International titled “Nigeria: Mounting death toll and looming humanitarian crisis amid unchecked attacks by armed groups”, describing it as misleading and lacking in context.
In a statement issued on Friday May 30, by the Director, Defence Media Operations, DDMO, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, DHQ acknowledged the vital role of civil society but criticized Amnesty for “sweeping generalizations” and a “failure to recognize the monumental strides” achieved by the Armed Forces under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership since May 2023.
DHQ stated that over 5,000 terrorists and bandits have been neutralized across the Northeast, Northwest, and North Central, while more than 1,200 kidnapped civilians were rescued. It also highlighted the recovery of over 350 communities from armed groups, especially in Borno, Niger, Zamfara, and Katsina States.
Military operations like SAFE HAVEN, HADARIN DAJI, and WHIRL STROKE have significantly suppressed militia activities, and the Nigerian Air Force conducted over 500 airstrikes, degrading the logistics of armed groups.
Rejecting Amnesty’s claim that 2,630 people were killed in Plateau in two years, DHQ said recent coordinated attacks only occurred in Bokkos and Bassa LGAs in April 2025, with improved security since July 2023. Claims of 167 displaced communities in Plateau were also dismissed as “falsehood.”
In the Northwest, DHQ emphasized active military presence and recent successes, particularly in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Katsina. In Zamfara alone, 1,500 bandits were killed, and 687 abductees rescued in 24 months.
The military emphasized that its operations are professional, transparent, and that erring personnel are court-martialed when necessary. It urged the public to “discountenance” Amnesty’s report and recognize ongoing sacrifices and progress in securing Nigeria.
