Declare herdsmen attacks act of terrorism, SERAP tells UN

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) says the UN Security Council should declare the attacks by herdsmen in the country as terrorist activities.

In a letter written to the council and dated March 16, SERAP said it is concerned that the Muhammadu Buhari-led government is “failing to uphold its responsibility to protect the citizens from increasing atrocities by the herdsmen.”

SERAP said the killings could pose “serious threat” to regional peace and security if not addressed.

“SERAP urges the security council and its members to publicly condemn these terrorist attacks, express concern about the protection of Nigerians and communities affected by the violations of international humanitarian and human rights law and press the authorities to put in place special mechanisms for bringing those suspected to be responsible to justice, and victims to receive redress, including adequate compensation and guarantee of non-repetition,” the letter signed by Timothy Adewale, SERAP deputy director, read.

“The security council and its members should reaffirm that terrorism of all forms and manifestations, such as the growing attacks by herdsmen in Nigeria, are criminal and unjustifiable regardless of their motivations.

“The security council and its members should adopt a resolution to: characterise killings by herdsmen as terrorist acts and mobilize international support for Nigeria to combat these attacks.

SERAP said the security council must act now if “the council is not to be accused of failing the people of Nigeria.”