17 Killed in Sokoto: Amnesty International Presses Authorities to Bring Culprits to Book

17 Killed in Sokoto: Amnesty International Presses Authorities to Bring Culprits to Book
17 Killed in Sokoto: Amnesty International Presses Authorities to Bring Culprits to Book

Amnesty International has strongly criticised the deadly attack on Dangulbi community in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, where at least 17 people were reportedly killed by armed attackers.

The rights organisation called on Nigerian authorities to urgently investigate the incident, bring those responsible to justice and improve security for communities frequently targeted by violent groups.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Amnesty International said several of the victims had returned to the community to celebrate the Eid al-Kabir festival with relatives before the attack occurred on June 1, 2026.

The group described the killings as a tragic loss and urged law enforcement agencies to immediately identify and prosecute those behind the assault through a transparent legal process.

Amnesty also appealed to the government to provide relief, protection and support for survivors, displaced residents and families who lost loved ones during the attack.

According to the organisation, the incident once again exposed the growing insecurity facing many rural communities, where residents continue to suffer repeated attacks, killings and destruction of property.

The group noted that homes and businesses were reportedly looted during the invasion, leaving many families without shelter or means of livelihood.

“It is deeply disturbing that communities in remote areas still live under constant fear of armed attacks,” Amnesty International stated, adding that the continued violence has severe consequences for people’s safety, economic activities and access to basic services.

The organisation stressed that the deaths of visitors who had travelled home for the religious celebration made the tragedy even more heartbreaking.

See also  2027: Presidency Dismisses Peter Obi, Says He Cannot Match Tinubu

It further argued that no community should have to fear violence while gathering with loved ones for religious or cultural celebrations.

Amnesty International said the attack reflects a broader security challenge affecting several parts of Sokoto and neighbouring states, where recurring violence has forced many residents to abandon farms, businesses and homes.

The organisation accused both federal and state authorities of failing to adequately protect communities repeatedly exposed to armed attacks.

Reaffirming that safeguarding lives is one of the primary responsibilities of government, Amnesty called for stronger and long-term security measures to prevent future attacks, ensure accountability and help affected communities recover and rebuild their lives.