The Northwest Democracy Monitoring Group (NDMG) has strongly criticized Amnesty International’s latest publication on Nigeria, branding it “fake, mischievous and grossly misleading.”
In a statement released Friday, the group’s Chairman, Comrade Abubakar Sani, said the statistics cited by Amnesty International were “inflated, unsubstantiated and inflammatory,” warning that such claims risk fueling division and unrest in the country.
“We categorically challenge the numbers cited in this report, deeming them grossly inflated, misleading, and ultimately inflammatory,” Sani said. “It is imperative that we clarify our position and call upon Amnesty International to reconsider its approach to Nigeria and our ongoing efforts to strengthen democracy.”
According to Sani, Amnesty’s figures “lack the rigorous substantiation expected from an organization of its stature,” adding that NDMG’s own on-the-ground findings sharply contradict the claims in the report.
“The NDMG, committed to monitoring and promoting democratic values, has been on the ground, gathering data and insights from various communities across the Northwest region. Our findings starkly contrast with the inflated figures presented by Amnesty, which appear to be designed not to inform but to incite unrest and division within our society,” he said.
The group stressed that Nigeria’s situation is complex and cannot be captured by what it described as “oversimplified statistics,” insisting that exaggerated data undermines efforts to foster peace and stability.
NDMG also urged Amnesty International to work more closely with local stakeholders for a clearer understanding of Nigeria’s realities rather than, in its words, “relying on sensationalized data that fosters distrust and fear.
“Moreover, the timing of this report raises questions about its intentions,” Sani added. “At a time when Nigeria is working diligently to address its challenges through dialogue and democratic processes, the dissemination of misleading information serves only to undermine these efforts.
“We believe that such actions are not merely misguided but are indicative of a broader agenda that seeks to destabilize our nation. We implore Amnesty International to reflect on the potential consequences of its actions and to reconsider the impact of its reporting on the ground.
“In light of these concerns, we call upon Amnesty International to leave Nigeria alone and redirect its focus toward areas where its efforts may be more constructive.
“Our nation is not in need of external interference that exacerbates tensions; rather, we require support that acknowledges our sovereignty and respects our ongoing journey toward democratic consolidation.
“The Northwest Democracy Monitoring Group stands firm in our commitment to transparency, accountability, and the promotion of democratic values. We will continue to monitor the situation in Nigeria closely and advocate for the truth.”
Sani called on Amnesty International to “exercise greater caution and responsibility” in its reporting to ensure it supports — rather than undermines — Nigeria’s democratic development.
