Amnesty Demands Answers on Unidentified Bodies in Imo State Mortuaries

Amnesty International is demanding accountability from Nigerian authorities regarding the reported transfer of hundreds of unidentified bodies from mortuaries in Imo State. The human rights organization expressed grave concern over the situation, citing reports of bodies being moved from facilities like Ngor Okpala General Hospital and Mbieri General Hospital.

Videos obtained by Amnesty show bodies being moved at night, many appearing skeletal. The organization insists that the Imo State Government and relevant authorities must urgently clarify the circumstances surrounding these bodies, their identities, and the reasons for their movement. "Imo State Government and relevant authorities must immediately account for all the bodies, establish their identities and causes of death, and explain when, where and how they came to be in the mortuaries and where they are now being taken," stated Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.

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Imo State Government and relevant authorities must immediately account for all the bodies, establish their identities and causes of death, and explain when, where and how they came to be in the mortuaries and where they are now being taken.

Amnesty stressed the importance of preserving all bodies, mortuary records, and medical evidence to prevent interference with any potential investigation. The organization specifically called for a prompt, independent, and impartial inquiry into allegations that some deceased individuals may have been victims of unlawful killings during security operations in Imo State. They urged for proper identification, forensic examinations, and autopsies where necessary, along with prompt notification of families.

"The families of those who died or disappeared have a right to know what happened to their loved ones. The authorities must act urgently to establish the truth, preserve evidence and ensure justice and accountability," Amnesty International concluded, warning against the concealment or destruction of any evidence.

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The families of those who died or disappeared have a right to know what happened to their loved ones. The authorities must act urgently to establish the truth, preserve evidence and ensure justice and accountability.