The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has condemned the growing wave of alleged extrajudicial killings by security operatives across Nigeria, warning that the trend signals a troubling breakdown of discipline and accountability within the nation’s security institutions.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, CHRICED said it was “outraged and deeply shaken” by the frequency and boldness of such incidents, noting that multiple killings occurring within hours of each other reflect a dangerous disregard for human life.
CHRICED highlighted two incidents that occurred on April 26, 2026, describing them as emblematic of a broader crisis.
In Dei Dei, Abuja, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member was reportedly shot dead inside his father’s compound by a soldier attached to a military brigade guard.
While initial military reports suggested the incident resulted from crossfire, eyewitness accounts have disputed that claim, alleging the officer later admitted the shooting was a mistake.
On the same day in Effurun, Delta State, a police officer allegedly shot a young civilian in broad daylight over a dispute linked to a waybill parcel. The incident, captured on video, has since sparked widespread outrage across the country.
CHRICED said the two killings, occurring within hours, underscore what it described as a “nation in mourning.”
According to the statement, these incidents are not isolated but part of a long-standing pattern of excessive force by security agencies.
It recalled that similar concerns fueled the nationwide #EndSARS protests, during which Nigerians, particularly youths, demanded sweeping police reforms.
Despite commitments made after the protests, CHRICED said little progress has been achieved, with cases of abuse and impunity persisting.
CHRICED also cited reports by Amnesty International indicating that at least 24 Nigerians were killed during the 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, allegedly due to excessive use of force by police.
It expressed concern over plans to recruit 50,000 additional police personnel, warning that expanding the force without proper vetting and human rights training could worsen the situation.
“A democratic society cannot survive when security operatives act as investigator, judge, and executioner,” the statement said, stressing that all suspects are entitled to due process under the law.
CHRICED further decried reports that families of victims are sometimes pressured to abandon legal action or accept out-of-court settlements, describing such practices as a violation of the rule of law.
“Justice cannot be negotiated or silenced,” CHRICED stated, urging authorities to ensure that accountability is not undermined.
The Rights group called on the Federal Government to treat all alleged extrajudicial killings as matters of urgent national importance.
It urged independent and transparent investigations, as well as the prosecution of any security personnel found guilty, regardless of rank.
CHRICED also recommended sweeping reforms, including improved human rights training, stronger oversight mechanisms, psychological evaluations for armed personnel, and public disclosure of investigation outcomes.
Reaffirming the sanctity of human life, CHRICED warned that continued impunity would erode public trust and weaken Nigeria’s democracy.
The organization urged sustained action to ensure justice for victims and prevent further loss of life, stressing that only genuine reform and accountability can end the cycle of violence.
