The International Human Rights Commission – Rescue for the Future (IHRC-RFT), Nigeria Chapter, has warned that shutting down markets in Yobe and Borno states to prevent possible bomb attacks is not the right solution to insecurity.

In a statement signed by its Country Director, Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the group acknowledged the government’s intention to protect lives but stressed that indefinite market closures would only deepen poverty and create more hardship for already struggling residents.

“We understand and commend the concern for safety, but closing down markets without tackling the root causes of insecurity only drives more people into poverty,” the statement read.

Instead of blanket shutdowns, IHRC-RFT recommended smarter security strategies. These include deploying modern scanning devices, CCTV cameras, trained security personnel, and sniffer dogs at market entrances. The group also urged more investment in intelligence gathering and building trust with local communities to identify threats early.

Ambassador Adamu noted that thousands of Nigerians depend on daily trading to feed their families. Disrupting their means of livelihood, he warned, violates basic human rights — pointing to Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees the right to life and security, and Article 23, which upholds the right to work.

“Security agencies should also run public awareness campaigns to teach traders and residents how to spot and safely report suspicious activities,” he added.

IHRC-RFT emphasized that a community-driven approach, where police and locals work hand-in-hand, would be more effective in preventing attacks while safeguarding livelihoods.

The organization concluded by pledging to support the government through training, advocacy, and technical assistance.

“We urge all stakeholders to approach this issue with empathy and foresight. Security is crucial, but it shouldn’t come at the cost of people’s ability to earn a living,” the statement said.