The Northwest Democracy Monitoring Group (NDMG) has faulted the latest report released by Amnesty International on Nigeria, describing it as “fake, mischievous and grossly misleading.”
NDMG, therefore, called on the organisation to leave Nigeria alone and redirect its focus toward areas where its efforts may be more constructive.
In a statement by its Chairman, Comrade Abubakar Sani, the group said the figures cited in Amnesty’s report were “inflated, unsubstantiated and inflammatory,” warning that such claims could incite division and unrest in the country.
He said: “We categorically challenge the numbers cited in this report, deeming them grossly inflated, misleading, and ultimately inflammatory. It is imperative that we clarify our position and call upon Amnesty International to reconsider its approach to Nigeria and our ongoing efforts to strengthen democracy.
“The report in question presents figures that, upon careful examination, lack the rigorous substantiation expected from an organisation of Amnesty International’s stature.
“The NDMG, committed to monitoring and promoting democratic values, has been on the ground, gathering data and insights from various communities across the Northwest region. Our findings starkly contrast with the inflated figures presented by Amnesty, which appear to be designed not to inform but to incite unrest and division within our society.
“It is essential to recognise that the context in which these figures are presented is equally important. The situation in Nigeria is complex, influenced by a myriad of socio-political factors. Oversimplifying these issues through exaggerated statistics does a disservice to the people of Nigeria, who are striving for peace and stability.
Sani urged Amnesty International to work more closely with local organisations and stakeholders to gain a better understanding of the realities on the ground, rather than relying on “sensationalised data that fosters distrust and fear.”
He added, “Moreover, the timing of this report raises questions about its intentions. At a time when Nigeria is working diligently to address its challenges through dialogue and democratic processes, the dissemination of misleading information serves only to undermine these efforts.
“We believe that such actions are not merely misguided but are indicative of a broader agenda that seeks to destabilise our nation. We implore Amnesty International to reflect on the potential consequences of its actions and to reconsider the impact of its reporting on the ground.”
Reaffirming the NDMG’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and democratic values, Sani pledged that the group would continue monitoring the situation in Nigeria and “advocate for the truth.”
He urged Amnesty International to exercise “greater caution and responsibility in its reporting” to ensure that it contributes positively to the discourse on human rights and democracy in Nigeria.
