Kelechi kas
A Civil Society Organization, We The People, has said that in the 30-day period of June 2019, there were 17
documented incidents of atrocity in Rivers state that resulted in 26 killings.
The organization, in its monthly report, noted that while the June’s report marked a decline in the quarter, it nonetheless reflects a general climate of insecurity and lawlessness which continues to highlight Rivers state in atrocious murders.
According to the report, 4 of the killings in June were committed by state actors including the army and police, while
13 were committed by none state actors mostly gang members.
“The 26 killings recorded in the month of June is a significant decrease compared to the figure for the months of April and
May which was 46 and 80 respectively.
“This decline largely reflects the outcome of outrage, pressures and demand for accountability from stakeholders including civil society organizations and traditional institutions in the state.
“As commendable as this dipping murder statistics are, it is important to note the manner the decline has been procured. In
responding to citizens’ demand to end the killings, different institutions in the state including law enforcement and local
government authorities brokered a ‘peace’ deal with warring gangs in the state and secured a ceasefire in return for
‘amnesty’.
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