Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to urgently investigate reports that more than 150 Fulani detainees died at a military-controlled facility in Kwara State.
In a statement released in late April 2026, the rights group said many of the victims — including children — were among roughly 1,500 Fulani pastoralists held for months at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Yikpata.
According to Amnesty, the detainees were originally displaced persons who fled violent attacks in parts of Kwara, including Asa, Edu, Ifelodun, and Patigi local government areas. However, instead of receiving protection, they were reportedly taken into custody by security forces and kept in prolonged detention.
Allegations of Harsh Conditions
Amnesty International described the conditions at the camp as overcrowded and unsanitary, with detainees facing restricted movement, poor nutrition, and limited access to healthcare. These conditions, the organization said, have contributed to widespread malnutrition, illness, and rising deaths.
The group also expressed serious concern about vulnerable individuals, especially pregnant women, who are said to be at risk due to inadequate medical care.
Speaking on the situation, the Nigeria director of Amnesty International, Isa Sanusi, stated that those affected are caught between violence from armed groups and alleged mistreatment by authorities.
“Instead of receiving protection, they are being denied their fundamental rights, including access to healthcare, freedom of movement, and education,” he said.
Disturbing Testimonies from Survivors
Amnesty’s findings were based on field research conducted between April 5 and April 11, 2026, during which investigators interviewed detainees, survivors, and family members.
Several testimonies painted a grim picture of life inside the camp. Some detainees reportedly lost family members to hunger and disease, while others claimed that more than 150 people had died during their time in detention.
There were also allegations of discriminatory profiling, with some individuals reportedly targeted based on their identity, subjected to unlawful searches, and forced to pay bribes.
Call for Immediate Action
Amnesty International is urging the Nigerian government to launch a prompt, independent, and transparent investigation into the allegations and ensure accountability if violations are confirmed.
The organization also called for an immediate end to what it described as arbitrary detention, stressing that holding individuals based on ethnic identity violates both Nigerian law and international human rights standards.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Nigerian military or other relevant authorities regarding the claims.