CSO rejects Amnesty International report, says it misrepresents Nigeria’s security reality

The Nigeria Safety and Peace Solidarity Movement (NSPSM), a civil society organisation, has dismissed a recent report by Amnesty International alleging widespread government failure to protect citizens from violent attacks by armed groups and bandits.

At a press conference in Abuja, the Secretary of NSPSM, Mr. Andrew Paul Kato, described the report as exaggerated and unbalanced, accusing the global human rights group of painting a misleading picture of Nigeria’s security landscape.

“We are not here to speak for the military,” Kato said, “but as concerned Nigerians, we believe Amnesty International’s report does not accurately reflect the situation on the ground, nor does it recognise the ongoing efforts of the federal government and the Armed Forces under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.”

Citing figures quoted by Amnesty, which claimed over 10,000 people had been killed by armed groups in states such as Benue, Plateau, Zamfara, and others, Kato questioned the objectivity of the report.

“It is troubling that the same organisation that highlights the atrocities committed by armed groups also raises concerns about the treatment of arrested suspects, sometimes appearing to defend perpetrators more than victims,” he added.

The NSPSM further criticised Amnesty International for what it called a “selective approach” to its fact-finding, pointing out that the NGO interviewed residents in affected areas like Maru Local Government Area in Zamfara State, but failed to document progress made by security forces in pushing back insurgents and restoring peace in other parts of the country.

“What is the purpose of such a report?” Kato asked. “Is it to demoralise the troops, incite public unrest, or undermine the efforts of government and security forces?” It queried.

While acknowledging that some security challenges remain, NSPSM argued that significant efforts are being made to address them—efforts the group claims were overlooked by Amnesty.

“It is unfair and irresponsible to ignore the sacrifices of our military personnel. Nigerians must stand with the troops, not against them. We urge citizens to reject narratives that aim to sow discord or diminish the morale of those risking their lives for national peace,” the statement concluded.

The group also echoed previous claims by Nigerian authorities that some external actors may be pushing agendas that do not align with the country’s interests.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria under the present leadership from our investigation are not folding their hands and allowing citizens to be killed. Much is being done to tackle the challenges. Some of the efforts of the military is not being disclosed for some reasons.

“We are using this medium to strongly condemn and reject in totality the one sided report. It is not true.

“Rather, our security agents with the support of the federal government are working tirelessly to protect the country.

“We urge Nigerians to support our troops, they are working for us. Let us collectively reject any group working to cause disharmony and deepen the security challenges in our country,” NSPSM said.