Women and residents of Amasiri Community in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State have taken to the streets in protest over alleged human rights abuses and security excesses reportedly linked to ongoing security operations in the area.
The protesters, made up largely of women and community members, accused security operatives deployed to enforce a 20-hour curfew of engaging in acts they described as excessive and harmful to civilians. They alleged that the operations have resulted in the destruction of homes, farmlands, and livelihoods, as well as intimidation of residents, thereby worsening the humanitarian situation in the community.
Eyewitnesses said the demonstrators, many of whom carried leaves and placards, marched through parts of the community while chanting solidarity songs and calling for an end to what they described as indiscriminate use of force. The women demanded protection of civilian lives and property, insisting that security deployment should not translate into suffering for innocent residents.
The protesters further alleged that vulnerable groups, including women, children, and the elderly, have been disproportionately affected, with several families reportedly displaced from their homes due to fear and ongoing operations. They also expressed concern over restricted movement caused by the prolonged curfew, which they said has made access to food, healthcare, and basic necessities increasingly difficult.
Calling on the Ebonyi State Government and relevant security authorities to intervene urgently, the protesters demanded an independent investigation into the alleged human rights violations. They also appealed for the presence of humanitarian agencies and the media to independently assess the situation and provide relief to affected residents.
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from security agencies or the Ebonyi State Government regarding the allegations raised by the protesters.
