A leading human rights coalition, the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), led by senior lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), has called on Nigerian authorities to immediately prosecute hundreds of suspects arrested in connection with mass killings in Benue State.
In a recent statement, ASCAB expressed alarm over the continued failure of both the federal and Benue State governments to bring suspects to justice, despite repeated arrests and the recovery of weapons. The group said the lack of prosecution has encouraged a climate of impunity and prolonged suffering for victims and their families.
Citing multiple police operations from late 2024 through mid-2025, ASCAB noted that over 273 suspects have been arrested for violent crimes, including murder and kidnapping. Despite these arrests, no significant trials have been conducted.
The group also criticized recent comments by the Chief of Defence Staff, who appeared to blame local communities for harboring attackers. ASCAB condemned the remarks as an attempt to deflect attention from the government’s failure to protect citizens.
ASCAB urged the Benue State Attorney-General, Fidelis Mnyim, to act immediately and ensure that justice is served, reminding the government of its constitutional duty to protect lives and uphold the rule of law.
