Amnesty International (AI) has called for Boko Haram to be held accountable for the years of atrocities and war crimes it has committed against Nigerian civilians. This comes as human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), condemned the harassment and legal threats directed at Amnesty International Nigeria (AIN). Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have also urged President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to end the alleged intimidation of the rights group. AIN’s Director, Isa Sanusi, spoke out after the brutal attack by Boko Haram on farming communities in Borno State on January 12, where over 40 civilians were killed. Sanusi condemned the massacre, highlighting Boko Haram’s utter disregard for human life and international humanitarian law. “Boko Haram must be held to account for its years of atrocities,” Sanusi said. “Our investigation found that Boko Haram gathered farmers and fishermen, separated the men, and shot them at close range. Those attempting to escape were chased down and killed, while others were injured.” The search for bodies continues, with plans for a mass burial for the victims. Sanusi emphasized that Boko Haram’s ongoing abductions and widespread looting remain a serious threat to civilians, stressing that urgent measures are needed to protect the public and ensure justice for victims. Since 2020, Boko Haram has specifically targeted farmers around Lake Chad. Meanwhile, Falana condemned the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) for intimidating Amnesty International simply for fulfilling its legitimate duties. The NPF had, through a letter on January 6, 2025, demanded a retraction and public apology regarding AI’s publication on police violence during the August 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests. The police refuted the accusations, calling them false and unsubstantiated. Falana responded, criticizing the legal threats as harassment aimed at stifling free speech and activism. Several CSOs, including the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), and 64 others, condemned the police’s actions. They called on the Nigerian government to halt the escalating crackdown on activists, human rights defenders, and journalists, and to ensure that Nigerians can freely exercise their rights without fear of retaliation. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
President Tinubu’s promise of a 30-day National Youth Conference remains unfulfilled three months later, sparking outrage from civil society groups and young Nigerians demanding accountability and urgent reforms. Tinubu’s National Youth Conference: Unkept Promise Fuels Youth Frustration Months after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu promised a 30-day National Youth Conference in response to the #EndBadGovernance protests, Nigerians are questioning his administration’s commitment to addressing youth-related issues. The announcement, made during the October 1 Independence Day broadcast, had raised hopes for tangible dialogue and solutions. However, three months later, the promised conference remains unorganized, prompting criticism from civil society organizations (CSOs) and youth leaders. Promised Engagement Nowhere in Sight Chief Patrick Eholor, Founder of One Love Foundation, criticized the delay, stating, “The Youth Confab was a critical opportunity for the government to engage young people facing systemic challenges such as unemployment and lack of basic amenities. This silence is a betrayal of their hopes.” Civil society voices echo similar sentiments. According to Global Rights Nigeria, Tinubu’s promise appeared more like a tactical move to quell tensions than a genuine effort to tackle youth grievances. Structural Issues Plague Leadership Response Andrew Mamedu, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, expressed concern over the delayed implementation. “This lack of urgency underscores the government’s failure to prioritize youth development,” he said. ActionAid emphasizes that meaningful change requires swift, inclusive action rather than rhetorical promises. Additionally, the Executive Director of Global Rights Nigeria, Abiodun Baiyewu, underscored the importance of addressing root issues: “Systemic rot in law enforcement, corruption, and unemployment must be tackled. A youth conference alone cannot resolve these entrenched challenges.” Renewed Skepticism Among Youth The silence surrounding the promised conference has fostered growing disillusionment among young Nigerians. Many fear the government’s reluctance to act signifies an unwillingness to disrupt the status quo. Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Secretary of CISLAC, emphasized the importance of sustained youth inclusion in governance. “Nigeria’s youth, representing over 70% of the population, must have a seat at the table. Their marginalization drives restiveness, brain drain, and diminishing patriotism,” Rafsanjani said. The Path Forward: Actions Over Promises As the February 2025 date for the conference approaches, experts stress the need for actionable outcomes. Suggestions include: Civil society leaders argue that delays in implementing promises like the National Youth Conference undermine trust in governance. With youth unemployment and inflation at record highs, young Nigerians demand more than symbolic gestures—they need urgent, transformative action. Key Takeaways By acting decisively and inclusively, the Tinubu administration has an opportunity to restore hope and empower Nigeria’s youth to drive the nation forward. READ ALSO;; Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
