Borno State in North East Nigeria has been grappling with the devastating impact of Boko Haram insurgency for over 15 years.
Amnesty International has condemned the killing of at least 15 local farmers and firewood gatherers in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State, calling on the Nigerian government to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The rights organisation described the attack, which happened on Thursday, October 1, as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.
According to Amnesty International, the victims were residents who had gone into the surrounding bush to gather firewood for cooking or to earn a living when they were attacked by suspected Boko Haram fighters.
The organisation said many farmers and other local residents in the area continue to face serious danger whenever they leave their communities in search of food or means of survival.
Reacting to the incident, Amnesty International said, “The targeting of civilians by non-state actors constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law.”
It urged the Nigerian authorities to take urgent steps to improve security for vulnerable communities across the region while ensuring that all actions respect human rights.
The organisation also called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
It said, “Authorities must conduct a prompt, thorough, and independent investigation into the Marte killings to ensure those suspected to be responsible are brought to justice.”
Borno State has remained one of the areas most affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, which has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions of people over the past decade. Despite military operations against the insurgents, attacks on farmers and rural communities still occur in some parts of the state.
Amnesty International said protecting civilians must remain a top priority, stressing that justice for victims and stronger security measures are essential to ending the cycle of violence in Nigeria’s North-East.
