The National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC–ONSA) has rejected a recent report by Amnesty International Nigeria, which claims that over 10,000 Nigerians were killed in the past two years.
In a letter dated 28 May and addressed to the Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, National Coordinator of the NCTC, Major-General Adamu Laka, described the report as misleading and inconsistent with verified data available to Nigerian authorities.
Laka urged Amnesty to suspend the release of the report, citing significant discrepancies and concerns over its potential to mislead the public and harm Nigeria’s global image.
“We strongly recommend that the report be withheld from publication pending a detailed engagement to address the apparent gaps and possible misinformation,” the letter stated.
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He argued that the report painted an unduly alarming picture that did not reflect the broader realities on the ground, warning that such narratives could embolden terrorists and criminal groups by overstating the impact of their actions.
To address the matter constructively, Laka invited Amnesty International Nigeria to a consultative meeting aimed at reviewing the report, reconciling figures, and discussing ongoing security efforts and challenges in protecting lives and property nationwide.
“While we acknowledge the role of civil society organisations in raising human rights concerns, it is essential that such work be grounded in accuracy, objectivity, and a sound understanding of the national security context,” Laka stated.
The NCTC reiterated its openness to dialogue and collaboration with stakeholders committed to the responsible reporting of human rights and security issues.
