Coalition of Civil Society Groups Rejects Amnesty International’s “Misleading” Report on Nigeria’s Security Situation

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The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity and Justice has strongly condemned the latest report released by Amnesty International alleging that over 10,217 people have been killed and 672 villages sacked in Nigeria.

In a statement issued in Abuja and signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade James Okoronkwo, the coalition described the report as “false, misleading, and an affront to the progress made by the Nigerian government in combating terrorism and insecurity.”

According to the coalition, the international human rights watchdog failed to present verifiable data to back its claims, thus raising serious questions about the motive behind the publication.

“We find this report to be a deliberate misrepresentation of Nigeria’s security realities,” Comrade Okoronkwo said. “The facts on the ground clearly show that immense gains have been recorded under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, yet Amnesty International chose to ignore this progress.”

Immense Gains Under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

The coalition highlighted what it termed “unprecedented strides” in the fight against insecurity within the last two years.

“Over 13,500 terrorists have been eliminated, with several of their leaders targeted and neutralized,” Okoronkwo stated. “More than 120,000 insurgents have surrendered, and about 17,000 individuals who were displaced have been successfully reunited with their families.”

He further pointed to the government’s huge investment in security infrastructure, saying:

“This administration has procured over 35 aircraft, four naval vessels, and a massive supply of ammunition to reinforce the fight against criminal elements. These are verifiable facts that cannot be dismissed.”

The coalition also praised the emphasis placed on intelligence gathering and surveillance.

“President Tinubu has directed security chiefs to intensify operations, enhance data gathering, and strengthen surveillance. The holistic approach being adopted recognizes that military force alone cannot secure the country. This is why rehabilitation, resettlement, and community-driven peacebuilding are part of the strategy.”

A Work in Progress

While acknowledging existing challenges, the coalition stressed that the government’s effort to secure Nigeria remains a continuous process“We are not yet at our desired destination, and no one is under any illusion that the task is complete,” Okoronkwo admitted. “But what is undeniable is that progress has been made, and with consistent effort and support from all stakeholders, Nigeria will reach the level of security and stability her citizens deserve.”

Rejection of Amnesty’s Report

The coalition maintained that Amnesty International’s latest findings lack objectivity and credibility.

“We reject Amnesty International’s report in its entirety because it is based on unverified information. The conclusions appear to be driven by a preconceived agenda, not a genuine concern for human rights or security in Nigeria,” Okoronkwo asserted.

He went further to caution the organization against undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty with what he described as “sensational and agenda-driven publications.”

Call for Support

The coalition appealed to Nigerians and the international community to rally behind the government in its efforts to consolidate peace and stability.

“We call on all stakeholders—traditional leaders, faith-based organizations, civil society, and the media—to support the Nigerian government’s fight against terrorism,” the statement read. “We also urge Amnesty International to embrace a more responsible and nuanced approach to reporting, one that recognizes progress while constructively identifying areas that require improvement.”

The coalition’s position underscores the widening rift between international human rights monitors and domestic civil society organizations aligned with the government, especially on the sensitive subject of Nigeria’s security situation.

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