Amnesty International has again criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a consistent failure over its inability to halt insecurity and the spate of killings, following the latest attack that claimed 17 lives in Mbalom, Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State on Easter Sunday.

“Gunmen invaded the village on Sunday while Easter celebrations were ongoing, leaving dozens of people severely injured,” the group said in a statement on Monday.

The rights organisation, Amnesty International, excoriated the Tinubu government for failing to protect residents, noting that the attack deprived many in Benue State of their right to life. At least 17 people were killed in the assault on Mbalom.

“The Nigerian authorities have failed the people of Benue State again and again,” Amnesty International said. “Frequent attacks by gunmen have deprived thousands of people of their rights to life, physical integrity, liberty, freedom of movement and access to livelihoods.”

The group added that the assailants had razed homes and shops, leaving families separated as they fled for safety.

“Families are still searching for those missing since the attack,” the group said.

Amnesty International further noted that more than 500,000 residents of Benue State have been displaced by recurring violence and are now living in dire conditions.