Amnesty International released a report on Monday, shedding light on the unlawful detention and abuse of dozens of women and young girls who had escaped captivity by Boko Haram extremists in northeastern Nigeria.
Based on 126 interviews conducted over 14 years, the report uncovered instances where women and their children were detained for years due to their association, real or perceived, with the extremist group.
While acknowledging recent improvements, the report raised concerns about prolonged and illegal detentions, echoing past human rights issues surrounding the Nigerian military, including extrajudicial killings and unlawful arrests.
In response to the report, Nigeria’s army dismissed the allegations as “unsubstantiated,” affirming its commitment to enhancing its human rights record and holding accountable any personnel found guilty of misconduct.
The conflict, which has spanned over a decade, has resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and the displacement of millions. Women and young girls who have escaped Boko Haram captivity often face forced marriages and sexual abuse.
According to the report, conditions in military detention camps in Borno state were described as dire, with survivors reporting insults, accusations of being “Boko Haram wives,” beatings, and deplorable living conditions amounting to torture.
Amnesty International called on Nigerian authorities to provide support for the full reintegration of these women and girls into society, emphasizing the importance of addressing their trauma and offering necessary assistance.
