Amnesty International demands probe into civilian deaths in Niger airstrike

Amnesty International Calls for Investigation into Civilian Deaths in Nigeria Airstrike

Amnesty International has urged Nigerian authorities to conduct an independent investigation into the reported deaths of six civilians during a military airstrike in Niger State.

In a statement released Monday, the organization condemned the incident, which took place early Sunday morning in the Guradnayi settlement near Kusasu in the Shiroro Local Government Area. The airstrike allegedly targeted armed groups in the region around 5:00 a.m. and struck a residential area.

According to Amnesty International, at least six civilians were killed, and several others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical treatment. The organization emphasized that Nigerian authorities must initiate an independent, impartial, and transparent investigation, make the findings public, and hold those responsible accountable for any violations of international law.

The group expressed concern about the repeated loss of civilian lives during military operations, noting that such incidents undermine Nigeria’s compliance with international human rights and humanitarian standards. Amnesty highlighted the necessity for military actions to adhere to principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution.

Additionally, the organization called on the government to provide medical care, humanitarian assistance, psychosocial support, and reparations to the victims and their families.

Amnesty International insisted that the Nigerian government must promptly reassess operational procedures for aerial bombardments and implement effective safeguards to prevent future civilian casualties. The organization reiterated that civilians should never face danger during security operations.

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