Amnesty International Thursday accused Nigerian authorities of failing to protect detained Fulani pastoralists in Kwara state, alleging that at least 150 people, most of them children, died in a military-controlled camp where displaced persons were held for months under harsh conditions.
In a statement, the organisation said those who died were among about 1,500 Fulani men, women and children detained at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Yikpata after fleeing attacks by armed groups across parts of the state.
Amnesty said its findings were based on field research conducted between 5 and 11 April, during which its investigators visited the camp and surrounding communities, interviewed about 60 people in affected areas, and spoke directly with 30 detainees, survivors and family members.
The report said many detainees had initially fled their homes in Asa, Edu, Ifelodun and Patigi local government areas due to escalating violence. Military authorities later directed some to relocate to designated assembly points before transporting them to the camp in Yikpata.
In a series of reports, the security situation in these areas, including recent coordinated attacks on Isin and Ifelodun local government areas and other areas, as seen here and here.
Rather than finding safety, Amnesty International said the displaced persons were subjected to overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, with limited access to food, healthcare and freedom of movement.
“Members of the Fulani community face persecution on two fronts, from armed groups and the military,” said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria. “Instead of receiving protection, they are being denied their rights to personal liberty, livelihood, movement, education and healthcare.”
The organisation said acute malnutrition and disease were widespread in the camp, with at least 100 pregnant women reportedly at risk of life-threatening complications due to lack of maternal care.
Images obtained from the facility showed children with visible signs of severe malnutrition, including protruding ribs and extreme weakness, Amnesty International added.
(Premium Times