By Muhammad Mamman
The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) has accused Amnesty International (AI) of exacerbating tensions in Nigeria through what it described as “unfounded and misleading” reports on violence across the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr. Tunji O. Bamidele, the group said AI’s recent claims of mass killings and abductions were inflated, mischievous, and aimed at destabilizing the country.
According to Amnesty International, at least 65 people were killed in recent attacks, including over 50 worshippers reportedly gunned down in Katsina and more than 15 farmers killed in Plateau State’s Mangu Local Government Area. The rights body also claimed that over 60 persons were abducted and more than 200 displaced.
But DWI dismissed these figures, insisting they were part of a pattern by AI to exploit societal grievances irresponsibly.
He said: “The report has the potential to illuminate injustices and inspire hope among the oppressed. However, when organizations like Amnesty International leverage this discontent irresponsibly, they risk igniting unrest and division.
“By amplifying grievances without substantiating claims, AI positions itself as a voice for the marginalized, yet their actions can lead to unintended consequences that fracture society rather than foster solidarity.
“At the core of Amnesty International’s strategy lies a troubling propensity to exploit societal rifts. By framing issues in a manner that pits communities against one another, AI cultivates an environment ripe for conflict.
“This approach raises significant ethical questions: Are the rights of some worth the discord inflicted upon the many? In a nation where unity is paramount for progress, AI’s methods appear counterproductive, fostering division rather than collaboration.
“While rebellion can be a legitimate response to oppression, the encouragement of such actions by organizations like Amnesty International can lead to chaos rather than constructive change.
“The romanticized notion of rebellion often overlooks the grim realities that accompany its loss of life, destruction of property, and the potential for authoritarian crackdowns. By advocating for rebellion without a clear understanding of the repercussions, AI jeopardizes the very human rights it claims to defend.
“The ethical implications of Amnesty International’s approach are profound. On one hand, the organization seeks to spotlight human rights abuses, which is commendable; on the other, its methods provoke a moral quandary.
“Is it justifiable to incite discontent if it leads to greater awareness of human rights violations? Or does the potential for chaos and violence negate the legitimacy of such actions? This dilemma underscores the complexities of advocacy in a world rife with injustice. While AI may believe it is acting in humanity’s best interest, the ramifications of its actions often complicate the narrative of progress.”
DWI maintained that promoting dialogue and understanding is a more constructive path to address grievances than what it termed Amnesty’s “incendiary tactics.”
He added, “In stark contrast to Amnesty International’s incendiary tactics, the promotion of dialogue and understanding emerges as a more constructive avenue for human rights advocacy. Engaging in open conversations fosters empathy and collaboration, enabling the identification of common ground among diverse groups.
“This approach, while challenging, holds the promise of lasting change without sacrificing stability. By prioritizing communication over confrontation, advocates can work toward a more just society, preserving the peace essential for genuine progress.
“The initiative firmly asserts that Amnesty International’s current trajectory, characterized by the incitement of discontent and encouragement of rebellion, poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s social cohesion.
“While AI raises awareness of critical issues, its methods risk leading to chaos and division, ultimately undermining the very rights it seeks to protect. The ethical dilemmas posed by such advocacy necessitate a reevaluation of strategies employed in the pursuit of justice.”
The initiative calls upon Amnesty International to reconsider its approach and engage in constructive dialogue that prioritizes unity and peace over discord and division.
He urge AI to recognize the complexities of the Nigerian context and to adopt strategies that promote healing and cooperation rather than exacerbating tensions.
