Amnesty Condemns Kano Over ‘Ruthless’ Forced Evictions, Demands Justice

Amnesty International Nigeria has condemned the killing of at least four people during a violent eviction carried out by the Kano State Government at Rimin Auzinawa in Ungogo Local Government Area.  

In a statement on Monday, Amnesty Country Director Isa Sanusi described the eviction as “ruthless” and part of a pattern of forced displacements in Nigeria that violate international law.

“Today’s ruthless forced eviction is just the most recent example of a practice that has been going on in Nigeria for decades — in complete violation of international law,” Amnesty International stated.

The organization criticized the government’s handling of the eviction, stating that the victims, mostly poor residents, lost their homes, livelihoods, and, in some cases, their lives.

“Kano State Government must halt these attacks on poor communities who are being punished for the state’s decades of urban planning failures. The chaotic scenes and threats by security forces to set fire to people’s homes have caused fear and panic,” the statement added.

According to Amnesty International, the eviction was carried out without consultation, adequate prior notice, compensation, or alternative housing—violating Nigeria’s international legal obligations.

“Using lethal force to render people who are already destitute homeless is a form of crude cruelty. State violence against the poor must end,” the organization demanded.

Residents of Rimin Auzinawa expressed outrage, calling the eviction inhumane and an abuse of power.

“We were not given any notice. They just came and destroyed our homes. Now, we have nowhere to go,” said one affected resident.

Amnesty International called on the Kano State Government to stop forced evictions and respect the rights of vulnerable communities.