What caused Extrajudicial killings of year 2021 in Imo

DDM NEWS

Extrajudicial killings in Imo State, Nigeria, in 2021 were largely attributed to the activities of security forces, particularly the military and police, in response to growing insecurity and attacks by unknown gunmen.

Several incidents were reported, highlighting a pattern of human rights abuses and excessive use of force by security operatives.

The Imo State government and security agencies were dealing with a surge in attacks by unknown gunmen, which led to a heavy-handed response by security forces.

This resulted in instances of extrajudicial killings, often under the guise of combating insecurity.

Security operatives, particularly soldiers, were accused of opening fire on unarmed civilians, motorists, and bystanders without provocation.

These incidents were often linked to alleged violations of checkpoint rules or mistaken identities.

There was a perceived lack of accountability within the security agencies, with few instances of prosecution or punishment for officers involved in extrajudicial killings.

This perpetuated a culture of impunity and further exacerbated the problem.

Matthew Opara’s Killing on May 25, 2021; Opara, a 30-year-old aluminum dealer, was shot dead by soldiers in Orji, Owerri, allegedly for being in the vicinity of a police station that had been attacked by unknown gunmen.

Divine Nwaneri’s Death on April 25, 2021; Nwaneri, a 100-level student of Imo State University, was shot by soldiers near the Government House without warning.

Noel Chigbu’s Killing on April 30, 2021; Noel Chigbu, a businessman, was shot by soldiers around the Amakohia flyover bridge, allegedly for violating checkpoint rules.

The incidents sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from residents, human rights groups, and some lawmakers, who called for an end to extrajudicial killings and accountability for those responsible.

The Imo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice confirmed that soldiers linked to the killings had been arrested and detained, facing orderly room trial.

Organizations like Amnesty International and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) highlighted the need for systemic reforms to address extrajudicial killings and promote human rights in Nigeria.

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