Why it matters:
At least 83 members of the Islamic Movement, including women, children, and even a one-month-old infant with her mother, are being held without trial in Kuje and Suleja prisons, some with untreated gunshot wounds, despite international condemnation.
The big picture:
Amnesty International has documented systematic state violence against Nigeria’s Shia community since 2015, with protests met by lethal force rather than lawful policing, in violation of constitutional rights to religion, assembly, and protest.
What he's saying:
Amnesty International Director for Nigeria, in an exclusive interview with Iran Press, said:
“What is happening in Palestine is a stain on humanity… genocide is going on. People should be able to protest without fear or harassment. Unfortunately, the Nigerian government targets Shi’a members with killings, abductions, and disappearances. We call for the immediate release of all detained members, justice for those killed, and compensation for their families. Protests are not crimes. Worldwide, protests remain peaceful; Nigeria must not be an exception.”
Key points:
- Violent Crackdowns: Government responds to protests with intent to kill, not to maintain order.
- Legal Violations: Actions contradict constitutional rights to religion and assembly.
- Health Crisis: Detainees include wounded individuals denied medical care.
Go deeper:
The case of Jamila Ibrahim, a one-month-old infant, and her mother, arrested during Gaza war protests, symbolizes the brutality, highlighting Nigeria’s refusal to uphold international human rights standards even for the most vulnerable.
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