Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to launch an urgent investigation into the reported deaths of at least 150 detainees, including many children, at a camp in Kwara State.
In a report released on Thursday, the organisation alleged that the victims were among about 1,500 pastoralists held for over three months at a facility located within the National Youth Service Corps orientation camp in Yikpata.
Amnesty said the detainees were displaced from their communities following a surge in attacks by armed groups across several local government areas, including Asa, Edu, Ifelodun and Patigi.
According to the group, they were directed to leave their homes to enable security operations and were subsequently moved to the camp.
The organisation expressed concern over the conditions at the facility, describing them as harsh and life-threatening.
“The Nigerian authorities must conduct a prompt, thorough, independent and transparent investigation into the reported deaths of at least 150 members of the Fulani community, most of them children,” the group stated.
It further alleged that those held at the camp faced overcrowding, poor sanitation, restricted movement, and inadequate access to food and healthcare.
“Instead of finding safety, the detainees are exposed to severe conditions, including hunger and disease,” Amnesty said, adding that pregnant women at the facility were particularly vulnerable due to a lack of proper maternal care.
The report was based on a field investigation conducted in early April, during which researchers visited the camp and spoke with detainees, survivors and relatives of those affected.
One of the testimonies cited in the report highlighted the severity of the situation.
“I escaped because of the harsh conditions. Many people have died from hunger and illness since we were brought here,” a former detainee was quoted as saying.
Amnesty also raised concerns about alleged discriminatory practices, claiming that some individuals were profiled, detained without due process, and in certain cases asked to pay money to secure their release.
The organisation urged the Federal Government to ensure accountability for any violations uncovered and to provide justice and compensation for victims and their families.
However, the Nigerian military has distanced itself from the facility.
Reacting to the allegations, Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, said the camp was not under military authority.
“The facility mentioned is not under the control of the military. We have no involvement with it,” he said, advising that enquiries be directed to the appropriate government agency.
