Alleges Human Rights Abuses, Seeks Federal, International Intervention
The Amasiri Community in Afikpo LGA of Ebonyi State has formally rejected the 72-hour ultimatum issued by the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, directing the community to produce severed heads of alleged victims and return persons reportedly abducted in connection with recent violence in Edda.
In a strongly worded statement signed by the spokesperson of the Amasiri Communities, Princess Joy Omagha Idam, the community categorically denied any involvement in killings or abductions and warned that the directive amounts to collective punishment and violation of constitutional rights.
“We state categorically, that Amasiri has no knowledge whatsoever of the alleged killings or abductions. The community neither participated in, facilitated, nor condoned any such acts.”
The statement further stressed that attributing criminal responsibility to an entire community violates the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), particularly the presumption of innocence and the prohibition of collective punishment.
Contrary to official narratives, the community said Amasiri has itself suffered grievous losses, including killings, abductions, displacement, and alleged abuses during security operations. “Contrary to the narrative being advanced, Amasiri has itself suffered significant and irreparable losses. Several sons and daughters of the community have been killed or abducted.”
Among those reportedly abducted, according to the statement, is a retired Warrant Officer of the Nigerian Army, alongside his wife and in-law, whose whereabouts remain unknown. “Despite these facts, the community is being threatened with severe sanctions and punitive measures for crimes it knows nothing about.”
The community warned that such actions are unjust, disproportionate, and capable of triggering further violence and breakdown of law and order.
Amasiri raised alarm over what it described as credible reports of widespread human rights abuses allegedly committed during ongoing security operations in the community. “Senior citizens are reportedly assaulted on a daily basis.
Women are allegedly flogged, humiliated, and forced to roll on the ground under the scorching sun, while being coerced to summon their sons who fled in fear for their lives.”
The statement said these actions constitute cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, prohibited under Section 34 of the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory. Design Flext with the Inscription Amasiri Bleeds.
The community also highlighted the humanitarian impact of the security situation, especially on children. “Children of Amasiri are unable to attend school or sit for critical national examinations, including the Common Entrance Examination and the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC).”
It described the situation as a violation of the right to education and a threat to the future of an entire generation. Within the last two weeks, the community said several lives have been lost, raising questions about equal protection under the law.
“We are compelled to ask: Are Amasiri lives not entitled to equal protection under the law? Did the Governor of Ebonyi State not swear an oath to protect all citizens of the state without discrimination?”
The statement also questioned whether undisclosed material interests related to Amasiri land may be influencing events, noting that Amasiri is regarded as one of the highest revenue generating communities in Ebonyi State. Citing a “clear and present danger” to lives and liberties,
Amasiri called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Army Staff, the Minister of Defence, and the National Boundaries Commission to intervene immediately. “We demand an impartial, transparent, and independent investigation into the allegations of killings, abductions, and the conduct of security forces in Amasiri.”
The community reiterated its commitment to peace and lawful conflict resolution but rejected intimidation and collective punishment.
“We appeal to the conscience of the Nigerian state and the international community to act swiftly to halt ongoing abuses, protect vulnerable populations, and restore peace founded on truth, justice, and respect for human rights.”
The statement included a list of persons allegedly abducted or killed by Edda people, which the community said had been formally petitioned without justice.
Names of victims allegedly abducted and killed on 20th January 2025: include Sunday Oko Akwa Oko Akpu Egele Christian Enya Agha Oko Itoro Essien Monday Abang Incident of 2nd April 2025 (Ozaraokangwu): Obinna Oko Eze — Amaukwa Ndukwe Emmanuel Okpara — Agbo-ezi Ihie elu December 2025 incident:
Mr Monday Ogbonnia, an electrician from Uhere Ohaechara, allegedly killed on 26/08/2025 at his rice farm in Ihubeni.
The statement also referenced the death of Mr Ndubuisi Agha Ukpai from Ezi Idam Ali Amaegbu Ezeke, who was reportedly shot during military operations on 3/2/26 and died the following day due to lack of medical access.
The abducted retired officer was identified as Warrant Officer Chukwu Charles, alongside his wife Patricia Chukwu
