Nigerian military demolished over 500 homes, displaced over 1500 civilians- Amnesty International

Amnesty International  Nigeria, has accused the Nigerian military of  demolishing  more than 500 homes and forcibly displacing  over 1500 civilians at Ganari community of Monguno local government area, in response to a recent escalation in attacks by the armed group Boko Haram.

In a post shared on its X handle, @AmnestyNigeria, Amnesty alleged that the Nigerian military has resorted to unlawful tactic that is having a devastating effect on civilians.

It said: “Since the demolition and forced evictions operation commenced in the night around 10:00pm on Sunday 12 April 2026, the military has overseen the destruction of homes, leaving thousands of families, including women, children, and the elderly, displaced and without shelter.”

Ganari is a community three kilometers from Monguno, the local government headquarters, which hosts both displaced people and local residents.

Amnesty International noted that several residents faced with the imminent destruction of their homes and properties have been forced to desperately strip their own houses of roofing sheets and other valuable materials to salvage what they can before their homes are reduced to rubbles.

“Right now many residents are displaced. Many of us are stranded, sleeping on the streets, while some are trying to find shelter with friends and relatives. As for me, I am currently in an open space, trying to find somewhere to rest, but I must clear the ground first because it is used for open defecation,” said a resident affected by the demolition in Monguno.

The families affected have already endured immense and horrifying suffering as a result of Boko Haram conflict. Some displaced more than twice.

“The Nigerian government must not brush these violations under the carpet. They must be investigated. Necessary steps must also be taken to ensure that military operations do not further forcibly displace civilian populations,” the post said.