A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Terkaa Aondo, has called for an urgent investigation into a violent incident in Anuku community, Kanje District of Awe Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, following reports of deaths, injuries and displacement of residents.
In a statement, Aondo condemned what he described as a deadly attack on residents of the community.
Citing preliminary accounts from locals, he said one person, identified as Moses Utim, was killed, while several others sustained injuries and many families fled their homes.
“I condemn in the strongest terms the violent attack on the unarmed people of Anuku community,” he said, adding that the incident had led to “loss of lives, injuries and displacement of residents.”
The silk linked the unrest to reported mining activities in the area, alleging that a company, IVAGOM Integrated Solutions Ltd, had commenced operations on farmlands belonging to members of the community without their consent.
“Available information indicates that mining operations commenced on farmlands belonging to members of the community without their consent, adequate compensation, or regard for their means of livelihood,” he stated.
Aondo also cited reports that armed individuals attacked residents on April 18, 2026, destroying property and causing panic across the community.
“Reports indicate that armed individuals attacked unarmed residents, inflicting injuries, destroying property and forcing men, women and children to flee their homes,” he said.
He further raised concerns over the reported presence of security personnel during the incident, stating that such claims require thorough investigation.
“The reported presence of security personnel without effective intervention raises serious concerns about the protection of lives and property,” he said.
The SAN also alleged that access routes leading out of the community were blocked after the incident, worsening the situation for affected residents.
“The subsequent blockade of access roads leading out of the community further compounds the situation,” he added.
While noting that the allegations require independent verification, Aondo said the reported events raise constitutional and human rights concerns, including the rights to life, dignity, freedom of movement and property.
“The use of state security apparatus in any situation that results in harm to civilians is unacceptable. The sanctity of life must be preserved,” he stated.
He called on security agencies to restore order in the area and ensure the safe return of displaced persons, as well as conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.
“I call on relevant security agencies to immediately restore law and order and ensure the safe return of displaced persons,” he said.
Aondo also urged authorities in the mining sector to examine the operations of the company mentioned to determine compliance with extant laws.
“The appropriate regulatory authorities should investigate the operations of the company to determine compliance with applicable mining laws and regulations,” he said.
He further appealed to the Nasarawa State Government and local authorities to protect affected communities and provide humanitarian support.
“There is an urgent need for humanitarian intervention, including support for displaced families and those affected by the incident,” he added.
Authorities in Nasarawa State had yet to respond to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
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