Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the killing of at least four people during a violent eviction carried out by the Kano State Government at Rimin Auzinawa in Ungogo Local Government Area.
In a statement on Monday, Amnesty International Nigeria’s Country Director, Isa Sanusi, criticized the government’s handling of the eviction, stating that it was ruthless and violated international human rights laws.
“Today’s ruthless forced eviction is just the most recent example of a practice that has been going on in Nigeria for decades, in complete violation of international law,” Amnesty International stated.
The rights group accused the Kano State Government of carrying out the eviction without due process, noting that residents were not given prior consultation, adequate notice, compensation, or alternative housing.
The statement reads, “Kano State Government must halt these attacks on poor communities who are being punished for the state’s decades of urban planning failures. The chaotic scenes and threats by security forces to set fire to people’s homes have caused fear and panic.
“The violent forced evictions at Rimin Auzinawa occurred without genuine consultation with affected residents, adequate prior notice, provision of compensation or alternative housing, contrary to Nigeria’s international legal obligation.”
According to Amnesty International, security forces used excessive force in executing the eviction, leading to unnecessary loss of lives and property.
“Using lethal force to render people who are already destitute homeless is a form of crude cruelty. State violence against the poor must end.
“The organization is demanding that the Kano State Government takes immediate action to address the situation, provide compensation and alternative housing to the affected residents, and ensure that those responsible for the violence are held accountable.”
The eviction exercise reportedly took place on Sunday night when government officials, accompanied by security agencies, arrived at the settlement around 10 p.m. to demolish buildings.
The action led to violent clashes, resulting in the deaths of four individuals.
