Boko Haram victims condemn abuse, call for justice, accountability

Victims and survivors of the Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East have condemned the torture and human rights abuses they endured, lamenting the culture of silence that has worsened the crisis.

The victims shared their experiences during a two-day training session in Maiduguri on Wednesday, organized by the Allamin Foundation to raise awareness about human rights in the context of peacebuilding. The session included victims, their families, and survivors of the insurgency.

According to the victims, this silence has led to increased violence, loss of trust in institutions, and prolonged victimization.

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Facilitator Muhammad Abdullahi noted that most survivors had experienced severe human rights violations.
“Many victims don’t know how to report abuses, gather evidence, or seek justice,” Abdullahi explained.

The training aimed to promote peace, awareness, and non-violence. Participants, including Muhammed Idris and Falmata Yaganami, praised the initiative.
“This training is vital; we have rights,” Idris said.
Binta Audu added, “Human rights go beyond committees; I now understand my rights and will fight for them.”

Human rights lawyers are offering free legal services to victims. Abdullahi emphasized the role of education in promoting human rights.
“Empowered individuals can drive change,” he said.

The training addressed justice and accountability for insurgency victims, with a focus on education as a tool to help them reclaim their rights and dignity.