Human rights organisation, Amnesty International Nigeria, has called on authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of the May 8, 2025, attack on travellers in Imo State are brought to book.

While condemning the attack that happened along Okigwe-Owerri Road, Amnesty said at least 30 people were killed and over 20 commuter vehicles and trucks burnt.

In a statement on Friday, Amnesty said the attack was allegedly carried out by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its militant wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).

“The attack allegedly carried out by IPOB/ESN gunmen shows callous disregard for the sanctity of life. The gunmen blocked Okigwe-Owerri highway and areas of Umuna in Onuimo LGA unleashed violence in an utter show of impunity.

“The Nigerian authorities must immediately and transparently investigate this attack and ensure that the actual perpetrators are brought to justice. International law requires the Nigerian government to promptly investigate unlawful killings to bringing perpetrators to justice,” Amnesty said.

Reacting, Kanuta Kanu, the brother of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, slammed Amnesty for linking the secessionist group to the incident.

He shared on X, “Amnesty International Nigeria. That Nigeria suppressed you people and threatened you cowards with delisting, that’s why you are publishing rubbish unverified fake news against IPOB. What can one expect from an organisation run by a black person. No soul, no morality, no ethics. Shame on you people.”