Amnesty International Condemns Killing of 15 Residents in Borno

BORNO STATE, NIGERIA - Amnesty International has condemned the reported killing of at least 15 residents in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State after suspected Boko Haram members allegedly ambushed civilians gathering firewood on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

The human rights organization disclosed the killings in a statement issued following the reported attack, saying the victims had entered surrounding bush areas to collect firewood either as a means of earning income or to obtain fuel for cooking at home.

According to Amnesty International, the residents were allegedly targeted by suspected Boko Haram fighters while carrying out routine livelihood activities.

“The victims, who were local residents venturing into the surrounding bush to gather firewood to earn a living or cook for their families, were ambushed and targeted by suspected Boko Haram group. Local farmers in the area continue to face these extreme risks on a daily basis,” the organization said.

Civilians Caught in Persistent Security Crisis

Amnesty International said the reported attack underscores the severe risks faced by civilians in parts of Borno State, particularly farmers and other residents who must travel outside populated areas to access farmland, firewood and other basic resources.

The organization described the reported killings as a serious violation of international humanitarian law because the victims were civilians.

It called on Nigerian authorities to take immediate steps to strengthen protection for communities in Marte and other areas considered vulnerable to attacks.

Call for Independent Investigation

Amnesty International also urged authorities to conduct a prompt, thorough and independent investigation into the killings.

The organization said such an investigation should establish the circumstances surrounding the attack, identify those responsible and ensure that anyone suspected of committing crimes is prosecuted through due process.

The call comes as residents in parts of Borno continue to face difficult choices between remaining in relatively safer populated areas and venturing into surrounding bush and farmland to secure food, fuel and income.

Livelihoods Under Threat

The reported Marte killings highlight a broader humanitarian and security challenge in northeastern Nigeria: civilians can face danger even while carrying out basic activities necessary for survival.

For families dependent on farming and the collection or sale of firewood, avoiding surrounding rural areas can itself threaten their ability to eat, earn income or cook.

Amnesty International urged the Nigerian government to strengthen civilian protection while ensuring that security responses comply with international human rights standards.

The organization said authorities must also work to prevent further attacks and ensure accountability for those responsible.

For residents of Marte and surrounding communities, the central concern remains immediate and practical: how can civilians safely access the land and resources they need to survive without becoming targets of armed groups?

The answer, Amnesty International says, must include stronger protection, credible investigations and accountability for attacks against civilians.