ABUJA, Nigeria — A coalition of young Nigerians under the Northern Youth Frontiers has accused Amnesty International of releasing “misleading and disruptive” reports on Nigeria’s security situation, alleging that the human rights body’s publications are agenda-driven and capable of fueling unrest.
In a statement issued Friday, the group’s National Coordinator, Sama Musa, described the reports as “careless and mischievous,” arguing that they distort Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity.
“We believe the organisation’s recent reports are not only careless but also deliberately mischievous, aimed at inciting chaos and undermining stability,” Musa said.
He stressed that Nigeria has faced multiple security challenges, from insurgency to banditry, yet the Federal Government and security forces have been working tirelessly to restore peace.
According to him, Amnesty International’s selective reporting ignores these efforts and portrays the country in a negative light. “Their narratives mislead the international community, demoralise our troops, and embolden criminals who thrive on the perception of weakness within our ranks,” Musa added.
The coalition further claimed that Amnesty International’s publications prioritise sensationalism over accuracy, presenting a one-sided account of human rights abuses without recognising the complexities of combating terrorism.
Calling for government intervention, the group urged a probe into Amnesty International’s activities and, if necessary, legal restrictions on its operations. It also advocated public awareness campaigns to counter misinformation and strengthen citizens’ support for security forces.
Amnesty International Nigeria, in a recent report, criticised the government for failing to protect lives, citing at least 65 deaths in one week from attacks in Katsina and Plateau states.
