Outrage as CHRICED decries surge in extra-judicial killings nationwide

Mercy Iheoma Ihedigbo

Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has expressed deep outrage over what it describes as a disturbing surge in alleged extra-judicial killings by security operatives across Nigeria, warning that the country is drifting dangerously toward a culture of unchecked violence and impunity.

According to the Executive Director of CHRICED, Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, the increasing frequency and brazenness of such incidents signal a breakdown in discipline, accountability, and respect for human life within the nation’s security institutions.

CHRICED highlighted two separate incidents that occurred on April 26, 2026, describing them as tragic reminders of a worsening national crisis.

In Dei Dei, Abuja, a young 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 accounts from the military suggested the incident resulted from crossfire, eyewitnesses disputed the claim, alleging that the officer later admitted the shooting was a mistake.

On the same day in Effurun, Delta State, a police officer was captured in a viral video allegedly shooting a young civilian in broad daylight over a suspected waybill parcel.

The footage has since sparked widespread outrage across the country, reigniting concerns about police brutality and abuse of power.

CHRICED described both incidents as avoidable tragedies, stressing that “no mistake should cost a citizen their life.”

The organization insisted that these killings are not isolated occurrences but part of a persistent pattern of state violence that Nigerians have long protested against.

It recalled the #EndSARS protests, during which citizens demanded sweeping reforms in policing and accountability. Despite promises made by authorities in the aftermath, CHRICED said little has changed.

Citing reports by international human rights groups, the organization noted that during the 2024 #EndBadGovernance protests, at least 24 Nigerians were allegedly killed by police while exercising their democratic rights.

“The killings continue. The impunity deepens. The promises remain unfulfilled,” the statement read.
Concerns Over Police Recruitment
CHRICED also raised concerns about ongoing plans to recruit 50,000 additional police personnel, warning that expanding the force without proper reforms could worsen the situation.
According to the group, recruitment must be accompanied by strict vetting processes, human rights-based training, and value reorientation to prevent further abuses.

“A democratic society cannot survive when security operatives assume the roles of investigator, judge, and executioner,” the organization stated.

The group expressed grave concern over reports that families of victims are often pressured to abandon their pursuit of justice through informal settlements.

It warned that such practices undermine the rule of law and deny victims the justice they deserve.

“Justice cannot be negotiated. It cannot be buried. It cannot be silenced,” CHRICED declared.

CHRICED called on the Federal Government to treat all cases of alleged extra-judicial killings as matters of national urgency, urging independent, transparent, and time-bound investigations.

It stressed that the burden of seeking justice should not rest on grieving families alone, but on the state.

To address the crisis, CHRICED outlined several key recommendations, including:
Immediate and independent investigations into all alleged killings, prosecution of offenders regardless of rank, comprehensive reform of security training to prioritize human rights and establishment of stronger civilian oversight mechanisms.

Mandatory psychological evaluation for armed personnel, and public disclosure of investigation outcomes.

Reaffirming the sanctity of human life, CHRICED warned that continued killings erode public trust, weaken democratic institutions, and deepen national insecurity.

“Nigeria cannot continue on this path,” the organization stated, urging sustained public pressure, transparent justice, and genuine reforms to break the cycle of violence.