Amnesty International Nigeria and leaders of Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) have called for an investigation into a viral video purportedly showing minors participating in a group marching exercise during which statements about attacks on Christians were allegedly made.
The footage, which has circulated on social media, reportedly shows young boys in a formation alongside adults wearing uniforms said to be associated with the JIBWIS First Aid Group. The circumstances surrounding the recording, including its location, date and context, require independent verification.
Translations accompanying the video suggest that some participants made references to obtaining AK-47 rifles and attacking Christians in Enugu and Jos, Plateau State. The precise wording and context of the statements have not been independently established.
Amnesty International has called on Nigerian authorities to investigate the footage, identify those involved and establish whether any laws were violated. The organisation has also raised concerns about the involvement of minors in activities that may expose them to religious intolerance or violent rhetoric.
The human rights organisation has urged authorities to ensure that the children’s welfare and rights are protected throughout any investigation and that appropriate measures are taken if wrongdoing is established.
Meanwhile, JIBWIS leaders have also called for an investigation into the incident. The organisation’s national chairman, Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau, reportedly distanced the group from the statements attributed to the participants, noting that the appearance of uniforms associated with its First Aid Group does not, in itself, establish that the exercise was authorised by the organisation.
The video has generated public discussion about religious relations, the protection of minors and the responsibilities of organisations conducting activities involving children.
Authorities are being urged to establish the authenticity and context of the footage, determine the identities and affiliations of those involved, and take appropriate action based on the findings.
As of publication, the allegations surrounding the video should be treated as unverified pending the outcome of an independent investigation.
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