Amnesty International has accused the Nigerian government of gravely failing children, raising concerns over a series of attacks targeting youths across the country.
The international human rights organization, in a statement issued on Saturday, condemned the assaults, particularly the abductions of students in the north, highlighting the government’s insufficient efforts to protect the lives and safety of its youth.
“Nigerian authorities are failing children, as over 230 children in the north are currently held captive by gunmen after being abducted during two mass attacks on schools, which have also disrupted the education of thousands due to the closure of hundreds of schools in Katsina, Plateau, and other states,” the statement read.
“The recent wave of brutal attacks on schools in Kebbi and Niger States clearly indicates that Nigerian authorities have not learned from previous incidents where schoolchildren were killed by armed groups.
“Children in certain areas of northern Nigeria face constant threats of death or abduction. In 2021, over 780 children were kidnapped for ransom during mass attacks on schools or religious institutions, with some tragically losing their lives during these assaults,” stated Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.
“The future of thousands of schoolchildren in Northern Nigeria looks grim, as hundreds of schools in various states have been closed indefinitely due to escalating insecurity. Many children may completely abandon their education due to the psychological trauma of experiencing violent attacks or living in captivity,” Sanusi added.
The humanitarian organization reported that some teachers in Zamfara, Katsina, and Niger States have indicated that insecurity has significantly decreased school attendance since 2021, with children fearful of attending school even when compelled by their parents.
“Underage girls are having their education cut short, as they are increasingly being married off in an attempt to protect them from potential abduction at schools.
“When educational institutions are targeted or attacked, the repercussions can be severe and long-lasting. Protecting children’s lives is crucial, and the Nigerian authorities have a responsibility to ensure that the educational sector is not further jeopardized by abductions, intimidation, and the killing of schoolchildren.
“There is a deliberate assault on children by armed groups. Using children as shields or bargaining chips is unacceptable and must come to an end. The Nigerian government must investigate these incidents,” the statement concluded.
