The International Human Rights Commission – Relief Fund Trust, Nigeria Chapter, has issued a stark warning over the escalating insecurity in the country, describing the situation as a critical point requiring urgent and decisive government action.
In a statement signed by Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the organisation’s Country Director in Nigeria, the group called on authorities to respond with urgency, sincerity, and a strong sense of justice to confront terrorism and banditry in all its forms.
The organisation traced the roots of the crisis to earlier injustices and systemic failures, highlighting developments in Zamfara State where the discovery of gold deposits allegedly led to the displacement of Fulani pastoral communities from their ancestral lands. According to the group, this disruption of livelihoods pushed many into poverty and contributed to crimes such as cattle rustling and banditry.
The IHRC also raised concerns about the role of vigilante groups, noting that while formed to provide security, some have worsened the crisis through abuses and extrajudicial actions. It further alleged misconduct by some security personnel, judicial actors, and traditional authorities, saying their actions have at times deepened grievances rather than resolving them.
The organisation warned of possible collusion between some officials and criminal elements, particularly in forest areas where financial interests may be sustaining insecurity. It also cited reports of interference that led to the release of arrested suspects, undermining public trust.
What began as a local problem, the group said, has now spread to other states including Kano, Jigawa, Bauchi, and Kaduna, with similar patterns of land disputes and displacement emerging.
“As a human rights organisation, we strongly emphasise that sustainable peace can only be achieved through fairness, accountability, and a genuine commitment to addressing the root causes of the crisis,” the statement said.
The IHRC called on federal and state governments to urgently review the drivers of banditry, urging security agencies to act professionally and respect human rights. It demanded accountability for anyone found to be supporting insecurity, regardless of their position, and called for immediate steps to protect vulnerable communities and restore their livelihoods.
“Nigeria stands at a critical point. A just and decisive response today will determine the peace and stability of tomorrow,” the statement concluded.
