Amnesty International has accused the Nigerian government of “failing children in a horrifying manner,” warning that over 230 schoolchildren remain in captivity following recent mass abductions in Kebbi and Niger States.
Global human rights watchdog Amnesty International issued a statement on Saturday condemning the Nigerian government’s handling of worsening insecurity in the northern region. The organisation said the latest wave of school abductions underscores the authorities’ inability to protect children.
“The Nigerian authorities are failing children in a horrifying manner,” Amnesty declared, noting that more than 230 schoolchildren remain in captivity after two mass abductions this week.
The group stressed that repeated attacks on schools have forced the closure of hundreds of institutions in Katsina, Plateau, Zamfara, and other northern states, disrupting the education of thousands of children.
Recent Attacks
- Kebbi State: Armed men abducted 25 girls from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, killing the vice principal during the raid.
- Niger State: Gunmen stormed St. Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, abducting students and staff in a pre-dawn attack.
- Kwara State: At least 30 worshippers were kidnapped during an assault on a church in Eruku, leaving three dead.
Amnesty said these incidents show that Nigerian authorities have “not learned from previous tragedies” where children were killed or abducted by armed groups.
The organisation’s Nigeria Director, Isa Sanusi, warned that unless urgent steps are taken, children in northern Nigeria will continue to face grave risks.
