Civil Society Groups Call for Investigation Into Human Rights Violations in Ebonyi

Civil society organizations operating under the banner of Advocates for Good Governance are demanding an urgent inquiry into reported human rights violations by security operatives in the Amasiri community, located in the Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The organizations expressed grave concerns over what they termed the excessive use of force after a joint security task force was deployed to the area on January 30, 2026, coinciding with the enforcement of a 20-hour curfew intended to alleviate communal unrest.

In a statement released to the media, the coalition's leader, Onyedika Agbo, asserted that the security operation led to a humanitarian crisis, with allegations of extrajudicial killings, home destruction, and significant losses in livelihoods.

Agbo claimed that residential structures were reportedly set ablaze and agricultural produce valued at hundreds of millions of naira was ruined during the operation.

"Women, children, and senior citizens have been forced to abandon their homes and seek refuge in nearby bushes to avoid intimidation and violence," he noted, adding that initially, local residents had welcomed the military's presence, believing it would provide protection.

He further indicated that the extended curfew has impeded access to health care services, particularly affecting elderly and critically ill individuals in the community.

"The fundamental role of security forces is to safeguard lives and property while maintaining neutrality. When those tasked with protecting citizens become sources of harm, the social contract is severely undermined," Agbo remarked.

The organizations have called upon the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, to launch an immediate investigation into the activities of the security personnel deployed to the area.

Additionally, they urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to initiate an independent investigation to document the alleged violations and ensure accountability.