Amnesty International demands justice for 17 victims of Sokoto massacre

Wednesday, June 3, 2026 -Amnesty International has condemned the killing of at least 17 people by gunmen during an attack on Dangulbi community in Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State, urging Nigerian authorities to ensure justice for the victims and strengthen protection for vulnerable communities.

In a statement on Tuesday, the rights organisation said some of those killed had travelled to the community to celebrate Eid al-Kabir with their families when the attack occurred on June 1, 2026.

Amnesty International called on authorities to launch an urgent investigation into the incident, identify those responsible and prosecute them through fair legal proceedings.

The organisation also urged the government to provide support and assistance to survivors, displaced persons and families affected by the attack.

According to Amnesty International, the killing of 17 people and the looting of homes and businesses in Dangulbi highlight the continuing failure of authorities to protect communities from recurring attacks by armed groups.

“It is unacceptable that rural and remote communities continue to live under the constant threat of violence, with devastating consequences for lives, livelihoods and access to essential services,” the organisation said.

Amnesty noted that the deaths of visitors who had returned home for the Eid al-Kabir celebrations made the attack particularly tragic.

“Communities should be able to gather, worship and celebrate in safety, without fear that gunmen will descend on their villages and unleash violence with utter impunity,” it added.

The organisation said the incident reflects a wider security crisis affecting communities across eastern Sokoto and neighbouring states, where repeated attacks, killings, abductions and displacement have created fear and disrupted economic activities, particularly farming.

Amnesty International further accused both the federal and Sokoto State governments of failing to adequately protect residents exposed to recurring violence.

Reiterating that the protection of lives remains a fundamental responsibility of government, the organisation called for urgent, coordinated and sustained measures to prevent future attacks, ensure accountability and help affected communities rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.