Amnesty International has urged United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, to use his upcoming trip to Nigeria to call for the release of the remaining #EndSARS protest victims still held in various prisons. The organization emphasized the need to investigate all atrocities by the Nigerian police pre and post-SARS disbandment, ensuring compensation for victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
Kate Hixon, Africa Advocacy Director at Amnesty International USA, stressed that Secretary Blinken's visit could foster US engagement with President Bola Tinubu's administration, emphasizing the importance of placing human rights at the forefront.
Hixon highlighted the Nigerian military's actions, urging Blinken to push for investigations and accountability for civilian deaths caused by military operations. Amnesty International emphasized the need for the Nigerian government to address human rights concerns without causing further harm to civilians.
Isa Sanusi, Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, called on Blinken to advocate for the release of individuals such as Mubarak Bala, Yahaya Aminu-Sharif, and Ismaila Sani Isah, facing blasphemy accusations. The statement also emphasized the harassment of human rights defenders and journalists, urging Blinken to address these issues during his visit.
Amnesty International called for the release of remaining #EndSARS protestors, emphasizing the need for due process and trials. They also urged Blinken to press for the full implementation of the investigation findings into the killings of peaceful #EndSARS protesters, advocating for justice, compensation for victims, and accountability for perpetrators.