Amnesty International Nigeria has come down hard on the Nigerian government, accusing it of failing to protect citizens after suspected Lakurawa insurgents killed at least 15 people in Kwalajiya village, Tangaza Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The deadly attack took place on Wednesday during afternoon prayers. According to Amnesty International, the armed group stormed the village, opened fire on worshippers, and left a trail of destruction in their wake. Some victims were reportedly killed while working on their farms. The attackers didn’t stop at shooting— they went on to burn homes, loot shops, and destroy properties.

In the chaos, dozens of villagers were injured, and many more have gone missing. Fearing for their lives, countless families have fled their homes and are now taking refuge in makeshift shelters, including the Sardaunan Tangaza Model Primary School.

Amnesty International didn’t hold back in its condemnation. In a statement shared on its official Facebook page, the global rights group described eastern Sokoto as “Nigeria’s forgotten conflict,” highlighting how communities there have endured relentless attacks for over two years. Villagers are reportedly living under constant threats, with militants often demanding ransoms under the pain of death.

The group slammed both state and federal authorities for what it called gross incompetence and a shocking disregard for human life. “Not only has the government failed to stop these attacks, but they have also failed to protect these communities. The people of eastern Sokoto have been abandoned to their fate as security continues to deteriorate,” Amnesty said.

Worse still, Amnesty International accused the government of letting attackers walk free, thereby fueling a dangerous culture of impunity. “The spate of these killings is proof of the authorities’ failure to protect Nigerians. Their inability to hold attackers accountable only emboldens more violence,” the organization added.

Amnesty is now demanding an independent investigation into the Sokoto killings. They’ve called on Nigerian authorities to act swiftly and ensure that those responsible are tracked down and prosecuted.

As insecurity tightens its grip on Sokoto State, the voices calling for justice and meaningful action have grown even louder. For the countless families who have lost loved ones or been forced to flee, accountability and peace can’t come soon enough.