Amnesty International speaks out against violence on Atiku's campaign team in Kebbi

Global human rights group Amnesty International has condemned the violent attacks on the campaign teams of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kebbi State on Thursday. They warned that political repression is rising and threatening democratic freedoms across Nigeria.

The condemnation came after the group reviewed video footage showing armed gangs carrying out coordinated attacks. These gangs blocked roads, attacked opposition members with cutlasses, and damaged campaign vehicles.

The ADC presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, faced an attack by suspected political thugs. In one verified video from Argungu Local Government Area, these thugs were seen chasing opposition figures, beating them, and destroying their vehicles.

The attackers, armed with knives and machetes, threw stones and bottles at the campaign convoys. Journalists who were following the political convoy also faced danger. The group reported that armed thugs specifically targeted media personnel, damaging cameras and broadcasting equipment. This was seen as an effort to stop the recording of the violence.

Pattern of Intimidation

Amnesty International stated that the attack in Kebbi came just days after a similar violent incident against ADC campaigners in Sokoto State. This points to a pattern of intimidation meant to silence political diversity.

The organization said, "Clearly, a brutal campaign of repression against the opposition and its supporters is increasingly making it extremely difficult for them to exercise their rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly." They emphasized that no one should suffer harm or death for taking part in peaceful political activities.

Amnesty also criticized Nigerian security forces and federal authorities for their repeated failures and lack of accountability. The organization noted that security operatives have often failed to prevent or stop attacks on opposition events in various states, including Niger, Kaduna, Edo, and Enugu.

Call for Action

The group warned that ongoing impunity for political violence is weakening Nigeria's constitutional democracy. It creates a fearful environment as elections approach. Amnesty International called on the authorities to investigate the Kebbi incident right away, bring the attackers and their backers to justice, and ensure safety for all political actors, no matter their party.